One of India's most celebrated musicians, Bismillah Khan, who popularized the use of the shehnai (an aerophonic instrument which is thought to bring good luck, according to Wikipedia) has died aged 91. Such was Khan's impact on his home country's culture that his home state of Uttar Pradesh has declared a day of mourning as a tribute. During his long career Khan won numerous music prizes for elevating the status of 'shehnai music', while in 1991 he was given India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.
Aug 22, 2006
•
1 min read
Celebrated Indian musician dies
Indian shehnai player Bismillah Khan has died aged 91, and his home state of Uttar Pradesh has declared a day of mourning in tribute.