Hariprasad Chaurasia BIRTHDAY: Created history of music with flute

If there is one name in the history of Indian classical music that has given the flute worldwide prestige, then that name is Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia. He not only gave respect to this musical instrument, but also gave it a new identity by connecting it with the soul. His life journey is an example of struggle, dedication, and success.

Father was a wrestler

Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia was born on 1 July 1938 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. His father was a wrestler and wanted his son to also make a name in the wrestling arena. But Hariprasad's mind was attracted towards music. His mother died when he was five years old, and then he came to Varanasi. His childhood spent in the streets and on the banks of the Ganga in the city of Baba Vishwanath gradually led him to the world of music.

Learned music against the wishes of his father

Little Hariprasad first started learning tabla, but soon he was introduced to the flute. This was the turning point that gave a new direction to his life. He learned music against his father's wishes. His real musical education took place under the guidance of his mother, Annapurna Devi, who was the daughter of the great Ustad Baba Allauddin Khan. It was here that he learned and assimilated the depths of flute playing.

Hariprasad started his career as a flute player

In the 1950s, he started his career as a flute player in All India Radio, Cuttack. At that time, the flute was not taken seriously in classical music, but Hariprasad Chaurasia changed this perception with his practice. Gradually, he dominated the classical music stage.

Hariprasad Chaurasia Bollywood songs

In the film world, he formed the 'Shiv-Hari' duo with Shivkumar Sharma and composed music for many superhit films, such as 'Chandni', 'Lamhe', 'Darr'. The sweet tunes of his flute still reside in the hearts of listeners.

Brought the flute to the global stage

He spread the magic of music not only in India but also abroad. He brought the flute to the global stage by collaborating with artists like George Harrison, John McLaughlin, and Yehudi Menuhin. His album  'Call of the Valley' is still popular among international music lovers. He is not only an artist, but also an inspirational guru. He established 'Vrindavan Gurukul' in Mumbai and Bhubaneswar, where the flute is taught even today. Many artists, like his disciple Rakesh Chaurasia, have international recognition today.

Hariprasad Chaurasia Achievements: Received many awards

Recognizing his contribution, the government awarded him the Padma Bhushan in 1992 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2000. Apart from this, he also received many international awards like the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Kalidas Samman and Order of the Netherlands Lion.

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