Abdul Lateef Khan (1924/1925-2003) was amongst the leading exponents of the sarangi, an ancient and totally Indian instrument, now threatened with extinction. He represented the fifth generation in a distinguished lineage of sarangi players, which enjoyed royal patronage at Gwalior (Central Provinces), a major centre of Hindustani music in pre-Independence India. In a career spanning almost five decades, Abdul Lateef accompanied some of the most outstanding vocalists of the twentieth century, and established himself as a mature soloist, though with few opportunities to be heard.

His trials and tribulations represent the depressing history of the instrument itself (see interview below). Abdul Lateef battled successfully against the odds, thanks to the security of a tenure with the All India Radio, which he served until retirement in 1985. His musicianship and stature have been recognised with several honours and awards, the most prestigious being the Fellowship of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the apex body of the performing arts establishment in India.