Ravi Shankar, Indian-American sitar player and composer (d. 2012)

Pandit Ravi Shankar, born Robindro Shaunkor Chowdhury (and sometimes known as Rabindra Shankar Chowdhury), was an extraordinary Indian sitarist and composer whose profound influence reshaped the landscape of global music. Born on April 7, 1920, and passing away on December 11, 2012, this sitar virtuoso transcended cultural boundaries, becoming the foremost global ambassador for North Indian classical music throughout the latter half of the 20th century. His unparalleled talent and dedication not only inspired countless musicians across India but also resonated deeply with audiences and artists worldwide, earning him India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999.

Shankar's early life was steeped in artistic expression. Born into a distinguished Bengali Brahmin family, his formative years were spent immersed in the world of dance. He toured extensively across India and Europe as a dancer with the renowned dance troupe led by his elder brother, Uday Shankar, a celebrated dancer and choreographer himself. This period undoubtedly honed his rhythmic sensibilities and stage presence. However, a pivotal shift occurred in 1938 when, at the age of 18, he made the profound decision to dedicate himself entirely to the study of the sitar. He embarked on an intensive seven-year apprenticeship under the tutelage of Ustad Allauddin Khan, the legendary court musician and founder of the Maihar gharana (a distinct musical lineage), a period of rigorous discipline and musical immersion that laid the foundation for his future mastery.

Upon completing his formal studies in 1944, Shankar quickly established himself as a versatile and innovative musician. He began his career as a composer, lending his genius to the iconic Apu Trilogy by the acclaimed filmmaker Satyajit Ray, creating evocative scores that perfectly complemented the cinematic masterpieces. From 1949 to 1956, he served as the music director for All India Radio in New Delhi, a significant role that allowed him to shape musical programming and reach a vast audience across the nation, further cementing his reputation within India.

The mid-1950s marked the beginning of Ravi Shankar's monumental journey to popularize Indian classical music on the global stage. Starting in 1956, he embarked on extensive tours across Europe and the Americas. His captivating performances, coupled with his dedication to teaching, significantly boosted the popularity of Indian classical music throughout the 1960s. Crucial to this rise in global prominence were his groundbreaking collaborations and associations with influential Western musicians. His partnership with the legendary classical violinist Yehudi Menuhin resulted in critically acclaimed albums that bridged Eastern and Western classical traditions. Perhaps even more impactful for mainstream audiences was his friendship and mentorship of George Harrison, the lead guitarist of The Beatles. Shankar's guidance introduced Harrison to the sitar and Indian music, directly leading to its inclusion in The Beatles' music (notably on tracks like "Norwegian Wood"), sparking the "raga rock" phenomenon and popularizing Indian instruments and sounds in Western pop music during the latter half of the 1960s. Shankar continued to engage with Western music on his own terms, composing pieces for sitar and orchestra, and remained a tireless performer, touring the world extensively through the 1970s and 1980s. His esteemed status was further recognized when he served as a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper chamber of the Parliament of India, from 1986 to 1992, a testament to his cultural significance. He continued to perform with unwavering dedication until the very end of his remarkable life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pandit Ravi Shankar

What was Pandit Ravi Shankar primarily known for?
Pandit Ravi Shankar was primarily known as an Indian sitarist and composer, globally recognized as the most prominent exponent of North Indian classical music in the 20th century.
What instrument did Pandit Ravi Shankar play?
He was a virtuoso of the sitar, a plucked string instrument commonly used in Hindustani classical music.
How did Pandit Ravi Shankar influence Western music?
His influence on Western music was profound, notably through his collaboration with violinist Yehudi Menuhin and especially his mentorship of George Harrison of The Beatles. This led to the incorporation of Indian instruments and musical elements into Western pop music, sparking the "raga rock" trend.
What major awards did Pandit Ravi Shankar receive?
He received numerous accolades, including India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999.
Who was Pandit Ravi Shankar's main guru?
He underwent rigorous training for seven years under the legendary court musician Ustad Allauddin Khan, the founder of the Maihar gharana.
What was his connection to the "Apu Trilogy"?
Pandit Ravi Shankar composed the memorable music for Satyajit Ray's critically acclaimed "Apu Trilogy" films.
When did Pandit Ravi Shankar pass away?
Pandit Ravi Shankar passed away on December 11, 2012, at the age of 92.
What does "Pandit" signify in his name?
"Pandit" is an honorific title in India, signifying a scholar or a learned master, particularly in the context of Indian classical music or other arts.