Ravi Shankar

Ravi Shankar, born Robindra Shankar Chowdhury, was a titan of Indian classical music, renowned globally for his mastery of the sitar. Born in Varanasi, India, in 1920, Shankar's journey began at the tender age of 10, performing with his family's dance troupe across Europe and the U.S. His virtuosity and compositions, including several original ragas, captivated audiences worldwide, making him the most famous ambassador of Indian classical music in the West during the latter half of the 20th century. Shankar's influence extended beyond his performances, inspiring countless musicians, including those from the Beatles, with whom he collaborated. His compositions for films like "Gandhi" further cemented his legacy. Beyond his musical prowess, Shankar was a dedicated teacher, nurturing a new generation of musicians. His personal life included his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitar player Anoushka Shankar, both of whom carry forward his musical heritage. Shankar's contributions earned him India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999, and his impact on global music remains unparalleled.