Varanasi has been the cradle of some of India greatest musical talents. The city streets have echoed with the sounds of shehnai, sitar, and tabla for centuries. Here is a tribute to the legendary musicians who called Varanasi their spiritual home.
Key Takeaways
- The Legends
- Places Associated with Legends
The Legends
Ustad Bismillah Khan (1916-2006), the shehnai maestro, spent most of his life in Varanasi. He performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat aarti for decades and is credited with bringing the shehnai from a temple instrument to the concert stage.
Pandit Ravi Shankar (1920-2012), the sitar legend, spent his formative years in Varanasi under the tutelage of Baba Allauddin Khan. He went on to introduce Indian classical music to the world through his collaboration with George Harrison.
Ustad Bismillah Khan
Shehnai maestro. Bharat Ratna awardee. Lived in Dumraon, worked in Varanasi.
Pandit Ravi Shankar
Sitar legend. Grammy winner. Brought Indian music to global audiences.
Kishan Maharaj
Tabla virtuoso. Known for his powerful and dramatic playing style.
Places Associated with Legends
The Bismillah Khan Museum near Dashashwamedh Ghat preserves the maestro instruments, recordings, and personal items. The Ravi Shankar Foundation near Assi Ghat offers information about the sitar legend legacy.
Bismillah Khan Museum
Near Dashashwamedh Ghat. Entry Rs 20. Open 10 AM - 5 PM, closed Mondays.
Ravi Shankar Foundation
Near Assi Ghat. Information about his life and recordings. Free entry.
Quick Tips
Visit Bismillah Khan Museum (Rs 20) near Dashashwamedh Ghat. Ravi Shankar Foundation near Assi Ghat. The Benares Gharana has produced shehnai, sitar, and tabla legends. Evening concerts at various venues.
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