Pandit Ravi Shankar Awards
Pandit Ravi Shankar, the legendary sitar virtuoso and composer, is one of the most celebrated Indian musicians of all time. His contribution to Indian classical music and its global outreach earned him countless accolades throughout his life. This article highlights the major awards and honors received by Pandit Ravi Shankar, showcasing his influence both in India and around the world.
Who Was Pandit Ravi Shankar?
Pandit Ravi Shankar (1920–2012) was a globally renowned Indian sitar maestro, known for bringing Hindustani classical music to international audiences. He played a key role in introducing Indian music to the West through collaborations with global artists like George Harrison of The Beatles, Yehudi Menuhin, and Philip Glass.
National Awards Received by Pandit Ravi Shankar
1. Padma Bhushan (1967)
Awarded by the Government of India, this is the third-highest civilian award, recognizing his outstanding contribution to Indian music.
2. Padma Vibhushan (1981)
In 1981, Ravi Shankar was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, further acknowledging his global influence and mastery of the sitar.
3. Bharat Ratna (1999)
Pandit Ravi Shankar was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1999. This placed him among the greatest Indian artists of all time, alongside legends like Lata Mangeshkar and M. S. Subbulakshmi.
International Recognition and Global Awards
1 Grammy Awards
Ravi Shankar is a three-time Grammy Award winner, and his contributions to world music earned him several nominations.
- 1973 – Best Chamber Music Performance for West Meets East (with Yehudi Menuhin)
- 2002 – Best World Music Album for Full Circle: Carnegie Hall 2000
- 2013 – Posthumous Grammy for Lifetime Achievement Award.
2 UNESCO International Music Prize (1975)
Awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, this prestigious honor recognized his role in promoting peace and cultural understanding through music.
3 Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters (France, 2000)
One of France’s highest cultural honors, acknowledging his influence on global music and intercultural exchange.
Other Prestigious Awards and Recognitions
1 Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1962)
India’s national academy for music, dance, and drama honored him with this award for his exceptional contributions to Indian classical music.
2 Kalidas Samman (1987)
Presented by the Government of Madhya Pradesh, this award recognizes excellence in the arts.
3 Ramon Magsaysay Award (1992)
Often considered the “Nobel Prize of Asia,” this award acknowledged his role in fostering international harmony through music.
Legacy and Continuing Recognition
Even after his passing in 2012, Pandit Ravi Shankar’s legacy continues to be celebrated worldwide through music festivals, foundations, and academic scholarships. His daughter Anoushka Shankar, a Grammy-nominated sitarist, continues his musical tradition on the global stage.
Conclusion
Pandit Ravi Shankar’s awards reflect a life dedicated to music, innovation, and cultural diplomacy. From the Bharat Ratna to international Grammys, his accolades serve as a testament to his unmatched contributions to both Indian classical music and global music culture. His legacy remains an inspiration for musicians and music lovers around the world.