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The shehnai, a musical instrument, was developed during the Mughal period by a barber who modified the pungi to create a softer sound, leading to its association with royal courts and auspicious occasions. Ustad Bismillah Khan, a renowned shehnai maestro, elevated the instrument to classical music stages and played it on India's Independence Day, symbolizing freedom and tradition. Music, as illustrated by Khan's global appeal, is a universal language that entertains and connects people across cultures.

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43 views1 page

Longans 1

The shehnai, a musical instrument, was developed during the Mughal period by a barber who modified the pungi to create a softer sound, leading to its association with royal courts and auspicious occasions. Ustad Bismillah Khan, a renowned shehnai maestro, elevated the instrument to classical music stages and played it on India's Independence Day, symbolizing freedom and tradition. Music, as illustrated by Khan's global appeal, is a universal language that entertains and connects people across cultures.

Uploaded by

chaudharydeepika435
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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1. How was the instrument christened ‘shehnai’?

The musical instrument shehnai has a very interesting origin. It is believed that
during the Mughal period, the pungi, a traditional musical instrument, was banned
by Emperor Aurangzeb because of its shrill and unpleasant sound. A barber from a
royal family of musicians took the task of improving the instrument.

He made a few changes to the pungi. He made a longer pipe with a broader opening
and added holes in a proper order to create a softer and more melodious sound. The
modified instrument had a pleasant and soulful tone. Since this new instrument was
first played in the Shah’s (king’s) royal court and it was invented by a nai
(barber), it came to be known as shehnai—‘shah’ + ‘nai’.

Thus, the shehnai became an important part of traditional and classical Indian
music and is often played during auspicious occasions like weddings and religious
ceremonies.

2. Discuss the achievements of Bismillah Khan as a shehnai maestro.


Ustad Bismillah Khan was one of the greatest shehnai players of India. He is
credited with bringing the shehnai out of temples and wedding halls onto the
classical music stage. His contribution to Indian music is unforgettable.

Bismillah Khan was born in Dumraon, Bihar, in a family of musicians. He was trained
by his uncle Ali Bux in Benaras (Varanasi), where he learned to play the shehnai
with devotion. His music was deeply rooted in Indian culture and spirituality.

One of his biggest achievements was playing the shehnai on 15th August 1947,
India’s Independence Day, from the Red Fort, in the presence of Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru. This made shehnai a symbol of India’s freedom and tradition.

He performed in many international festivals across countries like the USA, Canada,
Japan, and Iran, showcasing Indian music to the world. He also received many
prestigious awards including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and
finally the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

Despite his fame, Bismillah Khan remained humble and deeply attached to his roots
in Benaras and Dumraon. He refused many offers to settle abroad because of his love
for his country and its culture.

3. Do you think that music can entertain everyone? Give reasons.


Yes, I strongly believe that music can entertain everyone. Music is a universal
language that connects people across different cultures, languages, and
backgrounds. It has the power to express emotions like joy, sorrow, love, or
celebration without the need for words.

For example, even if we don’t understand the language of a song, we can still feel
its rhythm and emotion. Music touches the heart and brings people together. It can
relax our minds, boost our mood, and even heal emotional pain.

The life of Bismillah Khan is a perfect example. His shehnai music was enjoyed not
only by people in India but also by audiences across the world. He didn’t speak
many languages, but his music spoke to everyone.

Whether it’s classical music, pop, folk, or film music—everyone finds something
they enjoy. That is the beauty of music—it entertains, heals, inspires, and unites
people from all walks of life.

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