Who among the following was the co-winner of Bharat Ratna with Lata Mangeskar in the year 2001?

The correct answer is Bismillah Khan.

Key Points

• Bismillah Khan was a legendary Indian musician who played the shehnai.
• He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2001.
• Khan was born on March 21, 1916, in Dumraon, Bihar, and he belonged to a family of musicians.
• He is credited with elevating the shehnai, a traditional folk instrument, to the status of a classical concert instrument.

Additional Information

• Bharat Ratna
  • The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
  • It was instituted in 1954 by the then President of India, Rajendra Prasad.
  • The award is given for exceptional service towards the advancement of Art, Literature and Science, and in recognition of Public Service of the highest order.
  • It is awarded without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex.
• Shehnai
  • The shehnai is a traditional Indian musical instrument made of wood with a double reed at one end and a metal or wooden flared bell at the other end.
  • It is usually played in traditional North Indian weddings and religious ceremonies.
  • Bismillah Khan is one of the most well-known shehnai players in the world, and he has played an instrumental role in popularizing the instrument.
• Other Notable Bharat Ratna Awardees
  • Mother Teresa - Awarded in 1980 for her humanitarian work and founding the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata.
  • Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - Awarded in 1997 for his work in science and as a key figure in India's space and missile programs.
  • Nelson Mandela - Awarded in 1990 for his struggle against apartheid and his role in promoting peace and reconciliation.