Musical Roots and Masonry: Inside Zakir Khan’s Childhood

During the latest episode of Gopal Datt’s "Pehla Pehla", Zakir Khan opened a window into his formative years, where two seemingly different worlds collided. On one side, his family was erecting a new residence in Mumbai, and on the other, his home resonated with classical music. With a shortage of labor, Zakir stepped in as the fourth worker, preparing concrete, aligning bricks, and ensuring the site ran smoothly.

Simultaneously, the house was a hub for musical activity. Being the grandson of sarangi legend Ustad Moinuddin Khan, he grew up with the instrument’s haunting melodies drifting through corridors. Early mornings featured his grandfather’s practice sessions, and evenings were filled with tabla drills and sitar improvisations. Young students gathered for lessons, turning the residence into a vibrant cultural center.

Zakir also recalled trips to All India Radio’s studios where celebrated ghazal singers performed, providing him with a front‑row seat to India’s rich musical heritage. This dual exposure—hands‑on building work and deep musical immersion—shaped his storytelling instincts, enabling him to weave humor with heartfelt recollections.