Pandit Daya Shankar, one of the foremost shehnai maestros of the Banaras gharana, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of music that resonated across generations. His mastery over the shehnai, marked by clarity and sweetness in tone, earned him recognition not just in India but also on global platforms. As a devoted musician and a generous teacher, he nurtured countless students, ensuring the traditional sounds of his gharana remained alive.
Born into a family of musicians, Pandit Daya Shankar was the son and disciple of Pandit Anant Lal, a renowned shehnai player. Under his father’s guidance, he mastered the nuances of the instrument from an early age. His musical lineage and dedication to his craft placed him among the greats of Indian classical music. The purity of his notes, combined with the emotive depth of his renditions, made his performances unforgettable.
His contribution to music extended beyond solo performances. In 1988, he played a significant role in the Festival of the Soviet-Indian Friendship, a cultural collaboration initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev and Rajiv Gandhi. During this historic event, Pandit Ravi Shankar led a grand performance at the Kremlin, featuring the Russian Folk Ensemble, the Government Chorus of the Ministry of Culture of the USSR, and the Moscow Philharmonic’s chamber orchestra. Among the 140 musicians, Pandit Daya Shankar’s shehnai stood out, blending seamlessly with the diverse ensemble. His playing enriched the compositions, adding a unique charm that made the concert a milestone in Indo-Russian cultural ties.
The performance at the Kremlin was later released as an album titled Inside Kremlin, a testament to the fusion of Indian and Russian musical traditions. Pandit Daya Shankar’s shehnai carried the essence of Banaras, bringing the soulful sound of his gharana to an international audience. His collaboration with Pandit Ravi Shankar further cemented his reputation as a musician of extraordinary caliber.
Beyond the global stage, he remained deeply rooted in the Indian classical music tradition. His performances at major festivals and concerts across the country showcased his commitment to preserving and evolving the shehnai’s musical language. Whether performing intricate ragas or accompanying legendary artists, his presence was always marked by a deep understanding of rhythm and melody.
As a teacher, he displayed immense patience and generosity. His students remember him not only for his technical guidance but also for his encouragement and warmth. He believed in sharing his knowledge without reservation, ensuring that the shehnai continued to thrive in contemporary times. Many of his disciples have gone on to establish themselves as accomplished musicians, carrying forward his teachings.
The loss of Pandit Daya Shankar is deeply felt in the world of Indian classical music. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his recordings, his students, and the memories of his mesmerizing performances. The Banaras gharana has lost one of its brightest stars, but his influence will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
Pandit Daya Shankar’s artistry extended beyond just classical renditions. He had an innate ability to adapt his shehnai to different styles while preserving its purity. His collaborations with leading instrumentalists and vocalists showcased his versatility. Whether playing alongside sitar, tabla, or a full orchestra, he maintained the soul of the shehnai while blending effortlessly with other musical elements. This rare skill made him a sought-after performer at prestigious classical music festivals, including the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, Dover Lane Music Conference, and the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan.
His connection to Banaras, the spiritual and cultural heartland of Hindustani classical music, remained strong throughout his life. He often spoke of how the city’s sacred atmosphere and centuries-old musical traditions shaped his artistic sensibilities. The ghats of the Ganges, the evening aarti, and the resonance of temple bells all found their way into his music, lending it a meditative and divine quality. Every performance carried an essence of his hometown, making audiences feel the deep-rooted spiritual connection he had with his art.
In addition to his classical contributions, Pandit Daya Shankar also explored film and contemporary music, much like his mentor Pandit Ravi Shankar. His shehnai added a unique depth to film soundtracks, demonstrating his ability to make the instrument relevant beyond the classical stage. However, he remained steadfast in his devotion to Hindustani classical music, ensuring that his commercial ventures never diluted the sanctity of his craft.
Despite his immense fame, he remained humble and deeply committed to his students and listeners. He believed that music was a divine gift, meant to be shared generously. Even in his later years, he continued to teach, passing on the intricate techniques and emotional depth required to master the shehnai. His dedication to nurturing young musicians played a crucial role in keeping the shehnai tradition alive in an era dominated by electronic and fusion music.
The news of his passing has left the classical music fraternity in mourning. Musicians, disciples, and admirers from around the world have paid tribute to his extraordinary contributions. His music, filled with depth and emotion, will continue to inspire generations to come. His recordings remain timeless, a testament to his brilliance and devotion. While he may no longer be present on stage, his legacy ensures that the shehnai continues to sing in his memory.