Ravi Shankar

Date of Birth: April 7, 1920

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: December 11, 2012

Biography

Ravi Shankar, born Rabindra Shankar Chowdhury on April 7, 1920, in Varanasi, India, was a virtuoso sitar player and composer who was instrumental in popularizing Indian classical music in the West. A disciple of the legendary Allauddin Khan, Shankar’s career spanned over six decades, making him one of the most acclaimed musicians of the 20th century. Shankar first gained international fame in the 1950s and 1960s when he collaborated with Western musicians such as violinist Yehudi Menuhin and Beatles guitarist George Harrison. His innovative efforts helped bridge the gap between Eastern and Western musical traditions. He was also known for his performances at iconic events like the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Apart from his performances, Shankar was a prolific composer, creating scores for films like Satyajit Ray’s “Apu Trilogy” and Richard Attenborough’s “Gandhi.” He received numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards and India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna. Shankar’s influence extended to various aspects of music, culture, and politics. His teachings and music have inspired countless artists globally, making him a true ambassador of Indian classical music.

5 Interesting Facts about Ravi Shankar

1. Ravi Shankar was the first Indian musician to perform at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London.

2. He was a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, from 1986 to 1992.

3. Shankar was awarded an honorary knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001.

4. His collaboration with George Harrison of The Beatles led to the creation of the famous album “Chants of India.”

5. Ravi Shankar’s daughter, Anoushka Shankar, is also a renowned sitar player and composer.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ravi Shankar

1. “Music is the highest form of art, and for those of us who practice it, it is a form of prayer.”

2. “I have always had a certain philosophy of life. I always want to be happy, no matter what.”

3. “In our culture, we have such respect for musical instruments, they are like part of God.”

4. “Through music, one can reach God.”

5. “Pop changes week to week, month to month. But great music is like literature.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Ravi Shankar’s estimated net worth was around $5 million.

Children

Ravi Shankar had three children: 1. Shubhendra “Shubho” Shankar, who was a musician and painter. 2. Norah Jones, a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter. 3. Anoushka Shankar, a celebrated sitar player and composer.