CBSE Class 9 English – The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan

Chapter Overview

“The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan” tells the story of Ustad Bismillah Khan, who elevated the shehnai from folk to classical stage. It covers his humble beginnings in a musical family, his devotion to Benaras and the river Ganga, and his historic performance at Red Fort on 15 August 1947. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Important Keywords

• Shehnai: A reed instrument developed from the pungi, used in auspicious events. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Pungi: Traditional folk reed instrument that preceded the shehnai. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Maestro: Master musician (e.g. Ustad Bismillah Khan). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Bharat Ratna: India's highest civilian award, received by Bismillah Khan in 2001. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Red Fort: Historic monument in New Delhi where he played on Independence Day. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• All India Radio (AIR): Where he first gained recognition in 1938. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}