Ravi Shankar
Awards & Honours
8
Awards Won
5
Honours
4
Rankings
3
Covers
3
Records
Ravi Shankar's achievements stand as a testament to his unparalleled contribution to world music. He was the only Indian musician to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a distinction awarded by President Barack Obama posthumously. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 recognized his profound influence on Western music, a rare honor for a classical instrumentalist. Rolling Stone ranked him #4 on their list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time," acknowledging his mastery of the sitar. Time Magazine named him one of the "100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century," highlighting his role as a cultural bridge. His four Grammy wins and multiple honorary doctorates from prestigious universities like Harvard and Oxford further underscore his global impact.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
Inducted as a non-performer for influence on Western music.
Grammy Hall of Fame Induction
Multiple recordings inducted for historical significance.
Honorary Doctorate
Doctor of Fine Arts.
Key to the City
Awarded in recognition of his contributions to the arts.
Ravi Shankar Foundation
Established to promote peace through music and education.
Rankings & Lists
100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time
100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century
Top 100 Classical Artists of All Time
100 Greatest Musicians
Magazine Covers
TIME
March 29, 1968
The Sitar Maestro
Rolling Stone
October 1970
Concert for Bangladesh Success
Vogue
1967
Indian Spirituality and Fashion
Records & Feats
First Major Benefit Concert
Co-organized The Concert for Bangladesh, the first major benefit concert in history.
Highest Civilian Honor Recipient
Received the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award.
Presidential Medal of Freedom
Only Indian musician to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.