Ravi Shankar

Ravi Shankar (1920-2012) was an influential Indian sitar virtuoso, composer, and music teacher, widely recognized for introducing Indian classical music to the Western world. He was a pivotal figure in the genre of Hindustani classical music and played a crucial role in the fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions. Notable works include "Concerto for Sitar and Orchestra" (1986), "Three Ragas" (1956), and his collaborations with Western musicians, such as George Harrison of The Beatles, with whom he popularized Indian music in the 1960s. Shankar's performances at major festivals, notably the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967 and Woodstock in 1969, further established his international reputation. His impact on music extends beyond performance; he was an educator, training numerous students, including the renowned sitar player Anoushka Shankar, his daughter. Ravi Shankar's legacy is marked by his efforts to bridge cultural gaps and inspire countless musicians across genres, making him a significant figure in both Indian music and global music history.