Ravi Shankar

Ravi Shankar (April 7, 1920 – December 11, 2012) was an Indian sitar player and composer who became the world's most renowned exponent of Indian classical music. Born in Varanasi, India, Shankar began training in music as a child and eventually became a disciple of the legendary sarod player Allauddin Khan. He mastered the sitar under rigorous training and developed his own innovative style, blending traditional ragas with compositional elements. His international breakthrough came in the 1960s when he performed at major Western venues and collaborated with Western musicians, most notably guitarist George Harrison of The Beatles. This collaboration introduced millions of listeners worldwide to the complexities and beauty of Indian classical music. Beyond performance, Shankar was a prolific composer, creating music for films, ballets, and orchestral works. He founded music schools in Los Angeles and New Delhi to teach the sitar and promote Indian classical music globally. His influence extended to multiple Grammy Awards, UNESCO recognition, and enduring impact on world music.