NEW DELHI: Renowned maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan was celebrated on his birth anniversary, on Saturday 21 March, by Tourism and Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma.

Remembering the great musician, Sharma said that Ustad Bismillah Khan would always be remembered for his contribution to Indian Music, not just by the art of playing the shehnai, but also by popularising the musical instrument.

Along with keeping classical music alive, Ustad Bismillah Khan also took it to new levels. He has left behind a legacy for Indian music, for which the country will always remember him.

He was also awarded Bharat Ratna for his contribution, the minister noted.

The legendary Shehnai maestro was born on 21 March 1913 and died on 21 August 2006. He also won various other national honours including, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship.