The Sound of music part 2 -Ustad Bismillah Khan

  I. Answer these questions in 30–40 words.

 1. Why did Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi? 

 Aurangzeb banned the playing of the pungi because he found its sound shrill and unpleasant.

 2. How is a shehnai different from a pungi?

 The shehnai is an improved version of the pungi with a broader, more natural wooden tube and finger holes to control notes. Unlike the shrill and limited sound of the pungi, the shehnai produces a soft, melodious tone, making it suitable for auspicious occasions and classical music.

 3. Where was the shehnai played traditionally? How did Bismillah Khan change this?

 Traditionally, the shehnai was played in temples and at weddings as it was considered an auspicious instrument. Bismillah Khan elevated its status by introducing it to the classical music stage. He gave many memorable performances both in India and abroad. Also, he played the shehnai at concerts and major events, such as India's Independence Day in 1947 at Red Fort, making it a respected instrument in Indian music. 

 4. When and how did Bismillah Khan get his big break? 

 Bismillah Khan got his big break with the opening of the All India Radio in Lucknow in 1938. 

 5. Where did Bismillah Khan play the shehnai on 15 August 1947? Why was the event historic?

 On 15 August 1947, Bismillah Khan played the shehnai at Red Fort, Delhi, to celebrate India's Independence. The event was historic because it marked India's freedom from British rule. His performance, broadcasted nationwide, symbolized a new beginning and brought the shehnai into the national spotlight.

 6. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A.? 

 Bismillah Khan refused to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A. because he was deeply attached to India, especially his hometown, Benaras (Varanasi), and the holy river Ganga. He believed that music, particularly the shehnai, loses its soul without the cultural and spiritual environment of India. He famously said, "Without Ganga, there is no music," showing his love for his roots over foreign opportunities. 

 7. Find at least two instances in the text which tell you that Bismillah Khan loves India and Benaras. 

 Two instances that show Bismillah Khan's love for India and Benaras are: Refusal to move abroad - When offered opportunities to start a shehnai school in the USA, Bismillah Khan refused because he couldn't bear to be away from India, especially Benaras and the holy river Ganga. Emotional connection with Benaras - He often said that the atmosphere of Benaras and the banks of the Ganga were essential for his music, stating that his soul belonged to Benaras.