MS Subbulakshmi: Life and Legacy Quiz

MS Subbulakshmi was a versatile Indian classical musician known for her skillful singing of Carnatic music and her ability to blend it with other styles like Hindustani, Qawwali, and Western popular music. Born on September 16, 1916, in Madurai, she received her early training from her mother Balammal. She is often referred to as Sarsavati Mata. Her maiden name was Ganesan, but she took the stage name Subbulakshmi after joining a temple in Madras.

Subbulakshmi's musical career began when she moved to Chennai to study under the renowned vocalist Tiruvarur Vaidyanatha Iyer. It was during this time that she started performing publicly. One of her most memorable performances was at the annual festival of Thyagaraja Aradhana, where she sang a song composed by Mahatma Gandhi. This performance led to her being offered a chance to sing before the entire nation through All India Radio, which marked the beginning of her extensive broadcasting career.

Some of her notable works include renditions in Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, and Marathi languages. In addition to these, she sang in various genres such as Hindustani, Ghazals, and Qawwalis. She also collaborated with film composer Ilayaraja.

Subbulakshmi's fame spread beyond India, particularly after her visit to London in 1962. While there, she performed at Wembley Stadium to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. This event introduced her to a global audience, further solidifying her status as a world-renowned artist.

In addition to her musical talents, Subbulakshmi was also involved in social causes, including support for feminism, the eradication of untouchability, and the establishment of the Sri Ramachandra Krishna Mission. She even participated in the Salt Satyagraha movement initiated by Mahatma Gandhi by walking several kilometers back home without salt. This commitment to social justice paralleled the ideologies of Gandhi's nonviolent resistance movement.

Subbulakshmi's legacy extends beyond her active years. After her passing in December 2004, her son Ravi Shankar Prasad founded the MS Subbulakshmi Memorial Trust in Chennai. This trust aims to preserve her memory and work through events and programs related to her life and music.

Subbulakshmi was honored with numerous awards throughout her lifetime, including the Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Dada Saheb Phalke Award. These recognitions cemented her place among the greatest artists in history.

In conclusion, Ms. Subbulakshmi was a remarkable figure whose life and accomplishments have left an indelible impact on the worlds of music and social activism. Her talent, dedication, and advocacy continue to inspire generations today.