The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan summary and questions answers

Textual Questions and Answers (30–40 Words)

1. Why did Aurangzeb ban the playing of the pungi?

Aurangzeb banned the pungi because it produced a shrill and unpleasant sound. It was considered unsuitable for the royal court, and therefore its use was stopped in the palace.

2. How is a shehnai different from a pungi?

The shehnai is different from the pungi as it has a longer and broader pipe with holes that produce soft and melodious music, unlike the harsh and unpleasant sound of the pungi.

3. Where was the shehnai played traditionally? How did Bismillah Khan change this?

Traditionally, the shehnai was played in temples and weddings. Bismillah Khan elevated its status by introducing it to classical music concerts and bringing it to international platforms.

4. When and how did Bismillah Khan get his big break?

Bismillah Khan got his big break in 1938 with the opening of All India Radio in Lucknow, where he became a regular shehnai performer and gained recognition.

5. Where did Bismillah Khan play on 15 August 1947? Why was it historic?

He played the shehnai at the Red Fort in Delhi on India’s Independence Day. It was historic because it marked India’s freedom, and he was the first to greet the nation musically.

6. Why did Bismillah Khan refuse to start a shehnai school in the U.S.A.?

He refused because of his deep attachment to India, especially Benaras and the Ganga. He felt that the spiritual and cultural environment of India could not be recreated abroad.

7. Give two examples showing Bismillah Khan’s love for India.

He refused to settle abroad despite offers and always expressed his longing for Benaras and the Ganga when away. These show his deep emotional connection to India.

Competency-Based Questions (CBSE Pattern)

1. Why do you think Bismillah Khan is considered a cultural icon of India?

Answer:
Ustad Bismillah Khan is considered a cultural icon of India because he played a major role in popularising the shehnai on both national and international platforms. He transformed a traditional folk instrument into a respected part of classical music. Despite achieving global fame, he remained deeply connected to Indian culture, traditions, and spirituality. His life represents dedication, simplicity, and pride in India’s rich musical heritage, making him a true symbol of cultural excellence.

2. What lesson do students learn from Bismillah Khan’s life?

Answer:
Students learn several important lessons from the life of Ustad Bismillah Khan. His journey teaches the value of hard work, continuous practice, and dedication towards one’s goal. He achieved great success through discipline and passion for music. At the same time, he remained humble and connected to his roots. His life shows that true success lies not only in fame but also in preserving one’s culture, values, and identity.

3. How does this chapter promote unity in diversity?

Answer:
This chapter strongly promotes the idea of unity in diversity through the life of Ustad Bismillah Khan. Although he was a devout Muslim, he played the shehnai regularly in Hindu temples like the Kashi Vishwanath temple. His music went beyond religious boundaries and connected people emotionally. This reflects the true spirit of India, where different cultures and religions coexist peacefully, showing harmony, respect, and mutual understanding.

4. Why is practice important according to Bismillah Khan’s life?

Answer:
The life of Ustad Bismillah Khan clearly shows that practice is essential for success. From a young age, he spent long hours practising the shehnai near the banks of the Ganga. His dedication helped him master the instrument and create new musical styles. His journey proves that talent alone is not enough; consistent effort, discipline, and regular practice are necessary to achieve excellence in any field.

5. What would have happened if Bismillah Khan had accepted foreign offers?

Answer:
If Ustad Bismillah Khan had accepted foreign offers, he might have gained even more international fame and financial success. However, he would have lost the deep cultural and spiritual connection he had with India, especially with Benaras and the Ganga. His music was closely linked to Indian traditions, and living abroad might have reduced that emotional depth, which was the soul of his art.

6.“If you work hard and know where you’re going, you’ll get there,” says Evelyn Glennie. You have now read about two musicians, Evelyn Glennie and Ustad Bismillah Khan. Do you think that they both worked hard? Where did they want to ‘go’ ? Answer these questions in two paragraphs, one on each of the two musicians.

Answer:Evelyn Glennie is a great example of hard work and determination. Despite losing her hearing at a young age, she did not give up her passion for music. Instead, she trained herself to feel vibrations through her body and continued learning percussion instruments with great dedication. Her goal was to become a successful musician, and through constant practice, strong willpower, and confidence, she achieved international fame. Her journey shows that with clear direction and hard work, even physical challenges can be overcome.

Ustad Bismillah Khan also worked extremely hard to achieve success. From childhood, he practised the shehnai for long hours, especially near the banks of the Ganga, which inspired his music. His aim was to master the shehnai and bring it to the level of classical music. Through dedication and passion, he not only achieved this goal but also gained worldwide recognition. His life proves that hard work, devotion, and clarity of purpose lead to great success.