Born on March 21, 1916, Ustad Bismillah Khan was more than just a musician he was the man who elevated the shehnai from a wedding instrument to a global musical marvel. His soulful renditions resonated in temples, royal courts, and even the grand halls of the world.

A lesser-known fact? Khan sahib was so devoted to his shehnai that he once turned down a permanent U.S. residency offer, saying, "Banaras chhod kar kahin aur jaane ka mann nahi karta." Even at the height of his fame, he lived in a small, humble home in Varanasi, never chasing luxury.

Did you know? He was among the few musicians invited to perform on India's first Independence Day in 1947, playing at the Red Fort right before Nehru's historic speech. Another surprising fact? He played for the gods, performing at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple daily, believing his music was an offering to the divine.

Despite winning the Bharat Ratna, Ustad Bismillah Khan remained a man of simplicity and devotion. His music still echoes through time, reminding us that true artistry needs no riches only passion and faith.