Chapter 2 (Part II): The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan

Author: Based on a biographical account

Point-wise Summary

• The pungi was once banned in royal courts due to its harsh sound.
• A barber improved it into a melodious instrument now called the shehnai.
• Bismillah Khan was born into a family of musicians in Bihar.
• He practiced shehnai near the Ganga and believed deeply in music and spirituality.
• Bismillah Khan gave his first big performance at All India Radio in 1938.
• He played the shehnai on 15 August 1947 from the Red Fort, marking Indian independence.
• He performed across the world and was awarded the Bharat Ratna.
• Despite fame, he remained rooted in Indian culture and never settled abroad.

Theme

• Richness of Indian classical music
• Dedication and discipline in the life of an artist
• Humility and patriotism
• Spiritual connection with one’s art

Important Character

• Bismillah Khan: A legendary shehnai player known for his devotion to music and simplicity in life.

Word Meanings

• Banned – Officially prohibited
• Improvised – Made better or modified
• Apprentice – A person learning a trade
• Devout – Deeply religious
• Conferred – Given an award or honor

Important Questions and Answers

1. How was the shehnai different from the pungi?
The shehnai had a softer, more melodious sound than the pungi. It was improved by a barber and accepted in temples and royal courts.

2. How did Bismillah Khan develop his love for music?
He was born into a family of musicians and accompanied his uncle to the Vishnu temple where he was deeply inspired by the music.

3. Where did Bismillah Khan often practice?
He used to sit by the banks of the Ganga, playing the shehnai for hours, believing that the flowing river added richness to his music.

4. What was Bismillah Khan’s first major break?
In 1938, he performed on All India Radio and gained national recognition.

5. What is special about 15 August 1947 in Bismillah Khan’s life?
He was the first Indian to greet the nation with his shehnai from the Red Fort after India’s independence.

6. What awards did Bismillah Khan receive?
He received the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

7. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to settle abroad despite offers?
He was deeply attached to India, especially Benaras and the Ganga. He missed the essence of Indian culture and refused to live away from his homeland.

8. What values does Bismillah Khan’s life teach us?
His life reflects simplicity, dedication to art, love for the country, and respect for tradition.

9. How did Bismillah Khan contribute to Indian classical music?
He brought the shehnai to the concert stage and elevated its status from temple instrument to a classical solo performance art.