Asia · Modern Era

Who was Ravi Shankar?

Ravi Shankar was an Indian sitar virtuoso who became the most internationally recognized ambassador of Indian classical music in the 20th century.

Ravi Shankar (1920–2012) is remembered as a key figure from India, known for their role: Sitarist and composer.

Country / regionIndia · Asia
Known forSitarist and composer
Years1920–2012
BornVaranasi, India
DiedSan Diego, California, United States

Why is Ravi Shankar important?

Ravi Shankar stands out in history for a specific reason: Became the world's best-known performer of Indian classical music on the sitar. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Became the world's best-known performer of Indian classical music on the sitar.
  • Collaborated with Western musicians, including George Harrison and violinist Yehudi Menuhin.
  • Performed at major cultural events, including the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival and the 1971 Concert for Bangladesh.
  • Received multiple Grammy Awards over a career spanning more than seven decades.

A fast fact

Shankar taught sitar to George Harrison of the Beatles in the 1960s, a collaboration that helped introduce Indian classical music to a massive global audience.

Legacy

Shankar is widely credited with popularizing Indian classical music worldwide, and his influence helped shape the global fusion and world music movements of the late 20th century.

indiamodern eramusiciansasia

What is Ravi Shankar best known for?

Ravi Shankar was an Indian sitar virtuoso who became the most internationally recognized ambassador of Indian classical music in the 20th century.

When and where did Ravi Shankar live?

Ravi Shankar was born in Varanasi, India (1920–2012) and died in San Diego, California, United States.

What is Ravi Shankar's lasting legacy?

Shankar is widely credited with popularizing Indian classical music worldwide, and his influence helped shape the global fusion and world music movements of the late 20th century.

How can I learn more about Ravi Shankar?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.