Who Is Bismillah Khan? Age, Biography and Wiki
Bismillah Khan was born on March 21, 1916, in Dumraon, India, and he passed away in 2006. Even in 2025, his influence in the world of music lives on. As an eminent shehnai player, Khan is remembered for his significant contribution to Indian classical music. He was instrumental in popularizing the shehnai, taking it from temple and wedding ceremonies to the grandest of stages, including the Red Fort in Delhi. He was awarded multiple prestigious awards like the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India, which further solidified his legacy.
| Occupation | Musicians |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 21, 1916 |
| Age | 90 Years |
| Birth Place | Dumraon, Bihar, British India |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 21 August, 2006 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Bismillah Khan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although there are no concrete public records of his height and weight during his lifetime, it is said that Bismillah Khan had an average stature common among men of his generation. His unique presence and harmonious performances were what truly stood out, rather than specific physical attributes.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Bismillah Khan belonged to a well-respected family of musicians, with ancestry rooted in traditional music. He married his childhood sweetheart, who was instrumental in encouraging his music career, though he faced many personal challenges throughout his life. Over the years, there have been rumors regarding his dating life; however, he remained largely private about his relationships outside of family.
His father was a court musician employed in the court of Maharaja Keshav Prasad Singh of Dumraon Raj. His two grandfathers Ustad Salar Hussain Khan and Rasool Bux Khan were also musicians in the Dumraon palace. He was named Qamruddin at birth, to rhyme with his elder brother's name Shamsuddin.
Upon seeing the newborn, his grandfather Rasool Baksh Khan, also a shehnai player, is said to have exclaimed "Bismillah", or "In the name of Allah", and thereafter he came to be known by Ustad Bismillah Khan.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2006, Bismillah Khan's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million (adjusted for inflation, this may be approximately $15 million in 2025). His earnings came not just from performances but also from various accolades and awards he received throughout his career, which contributed to his financial stability.
On 17 March 2006, Bismillah Khan's health deteriorated and he was admitted to the Heritage Hospital, Varanasi for treatment. Khan's last wish – to perform at India Gate, could not be fulfilled. He wanted to pay tributes to the martyrs. He waited in vain till his last rites. He died of cardiac arrest on 21 August 2006, at the age of 90.
Career, Business and Investments
Bismillah Khan's career spanned several decades, during which he gained recognition not just in India but worldwide. He performed in numerous countries, showcasing Indian classical music to global audiences. His business ventures included music albums and endorsements, ensuring financial security after his performing days ended. Even today, many aspiring musicians look up to him as a benchmark for talent and dedication in the music industry.
Bismillah Khan began his career by playing at various stage shows. He got his first major break in 1937, when he played at a concert at All India Music Conference in Kolkata or Calcutta. This performance brought Shehnai into the limelight and was hugely appreciated by music lovers.
He then went on to play in many countries including Afghanistan, USA, Canada, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, West Africa, Japan, Hong Kong and in various parts of Europe. During his illustrious career he played in many prominent events throughout the world.
Some of the events that he played in include World Exposition in Montreal, Cannes Art Festival and Osaka Trade Fair.
Social Network
Although not particularly active on social media in his time, Bismillah Khan's legacy can still be found on platforms like Facebook and Instagram through fan pages and tributes dedicated to his work and life. Music enthusiasts and students around the world share clips of his performances, ensuring that his artistry continues to inspire future generations.
Bismillah Khan attributed his skill to the blessings of nath (Shiva), and believed that there was little that he could teach his disciples. Khan seldom accepted students. He thought that if he would be able to share his knowledge it wouldn't be useful as it would only give his students a little knowledge.
Some of his very few disciples are Padmashri awardee Pandit S Ballesh Bhajantri, known as Dakshina Bharat Bismillah Khan and his son Krishna Ballesh Bhajantri, and Khan's own sons, Nazim Hussain, Zamin Hussain and Nayyar Hussain.
Education
Khan's education in music began at an early age, significantly influenced by his family background steeped in classical music traditions. He mastered the shehnai under the tutelage of his uncle, Ali Bux. His dedication and hard work ultimately led him to become a beacon of Indian classical music, making education vital in his success story.
