Ravi Shankar: The man who influenced contemporary Western music like none other

The GRAMMY Museum made history on April 29, 2015, by opening its doors to a celebration of India's musical maestro, Ravi Shankar: A Life In Music. 

Held on the fourth floor in the Mike Curb Gallery, the exhibit unfolded the journey of the GRAMMY-winning world music icon, providing a rare glimpse into Shankar's early days, the roots of his musical prowess, and his profound influence on Western music, notably The Beatles.
Arranged chronologically, the exhibit commenced with a showcase of sitars from Shankar's formative years, some dating back to the 1930s. Among the artefacts were performance attires, including the distinctive 'dandy' ensemble worn by Shankar himself and an outfit donned by his daughter, Anoushka Shankar, in the 2000s.

Sukanya Shankar, Ravi's widow, reflected on his unique impact: "Ravi was one of a kind. He meant so much to Eastern and Western music and what they could accomplish together." 

She praised not just his virtuosity but his humility amid widespread admiration. Ravi Shankar, born in Varanasi in 1920, grew from a dancer in a Parisian troupe to a sitar virtuoso and prolific composer, bridging the gap between East and West.

While Shankar extensively toured the West in the 1950s and debuted at Carnegie Hall in 1961, his collaboration with George Harrison in the mid-'60s thrust him into mainstream pop stardom. 

The friendship led to the incorporation of the sitar into the Beatles' songs and groundbreaking performances at the Monterey Pop Festival (1967) and Woodstock (1969).

Despite the initial rock associations, Shankar's mesmerising performances and over 60 albums secured his place beyond pop culture. He clinched four GRAMMY Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Award, leaving an enduring legacy. His daughters, Norah Jones and Anoushka Shankar, continue his musical lineage, carving their own paths.

Shankar's impact on American audiences was transformative. George Harrison dubbed him the 'Godfather of World Music,' recognising Shankar's role in introducing non-Western music to a broader audience. Shankar's innovation extended to sitar notation, using Latin alphabet letters and introducing symbols for right-hand strokes.

The sitar, a complex stringed instrument with approximately 17 strings, became synonymous with Shankar's performances. Held at a 45-degree angle, the musician used finger picks to navigate its intricacies. Shankar's concerts offered a quasi-spiritual experience, transcending cultural boundaries.

The '60s marked a pivotal period, with Shankar's influence evident at iconic festivals like Monterey Pop and Woodstock. In 1971, alongside George Harrison, Shankar organised 'The Concert for Bangladesh,' a pioneering rock benefit that set the stage for future humanitarian events.

Ravi Shankar's personal life unfolded with three children: Shubho, Norah Jones, and Anoushka. Shubho, who learned sitar under Shankar and performed in the '70s and '80s, passed away at 50. Norah Jones, a nine-time GRAMMY winner, showcases her father's innovative spirit in her jazz and pop career. Anoushka, a multi-GRAMMY nominee, not only carries forward the sitar tradition but enriches it with global influences.

As a tribute to Shankar's centenary, the Indian Music Experience Museum in Bangalore, affiliated with the GRAMMY Museum, presents 'Ravi Shankar @100: India's Global Musician.' 

The exhibition features instruments, costumes, and photographs, offering an immersive experience of the life of the musical maestro. Shankar's legacy endures, shaping the musical landscape and fostering cultural exchange worldwide.

Today marks the legendary musician's 11th death anniversary.