Ustad Bismillah Khan Google Doodle Honours Shehnai Maestro's 102nd Birth Anniversary

Search engine Google is paying tribute to eminent Indian musician Ustad Bismillah Khan on his 102nd birth anniversary with a thoughtful doodle. Born on March 21, 1916, in a small district of Bihar, Bismillah Khan was one of the finest musicians in the country. The legendary musical artist played shehnai, a humble wind-instrument for over eight decades earning him the title of Shehnai Maestro. On ‘Bharat Ratna’ Ustad Bismillah Khan’s 102nd birth anniversary, the internet giant is honouring the great musician with a soulful Google doodle, and remember the rich legacy left behind by the beloved artist.

The Google doodle marking the occasion of Ustad Bismillah Khan’s birth anniversary in 2018 is crafted by Chennai-based illustrator Vijay Krish. As the viewers can see, the designer has drawn the caricature of an aged-Bismillah Khan wearing his iconic white cap, his white hair and beard and of course, playing the shehnai. The tune from the classical instrument forms revolves around the letters of ‘Google’. Giving more details about the doodle, Vijay Krish has placed Ustad Bismillah Khan’s image against the backdrop of a geometric style pattern with his instrument aloft, sending a festive tune out into the world.

Ustad Bismillah Khan was born in a family of traditional Muslim musicians in Bhirung Raut Ki Gali. While he was named Qamruddin at time of his birth, he attained his final named after his grandfather Rasool Baksh Khan first saw him and exclaimed in joy saying "Bismillah" – and that’s how one of India’s most celebrated names in the field of music got his name.

One of India’s most beloved musicians tapped the true potential of a simple Shehnai with a dedication to finally achieve full mastery over it. He began playing shehnai at the age of 14 but attracted all eyes and ears with his magical performance at the All India Music Conference at Kolkata in 1937.

Talking about defining moments in Ustad Bismillah Khan’s life, one has to mention the privilege he had of playing live at Red Fort on the eve of India’s Independence Day in 1947 and three years later on the occasion of Republic Day in 1950. Thanks to the former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s decision to have his recital telecast on Doordarshan, we all grew up listening to Bismillah Khan’s magical notes every year on August 15.

Ustad Bismillah Khan was awarded Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour in 2001. He was the third classical musician after MS Subbulakshmi and Ravi Shankar to be accorded with this award. In addition to Bharat Ratna, he was also honoured with all three Padma Awards - Padma Vibhushan in 1980, Padma Bhushan in 1968 and Padma Shri in 1961. The simple man with a pure passion towards music was a true gem.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 21, 2018 02:28 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).