M. S. Subbulakshmi was one of the greatest Carnatic classical singers India has ever produced and a global ambassador of Indian music. She was born on 16 September 1916 in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, into a musical family. From a very young age, her extraordinary talent in classical music became evident.
M. S. Subbulakshmi was renowned for her pure voice, perfect pronunciation, deep devotion, and mastery over Carnatic music. She sang complex classical compositions with great simplicity and emotional depth, making classical music accessible to common people. Her devotional songs, especially Vishnu Sahasranamam, Bhaja Govindam, and Suprabhatam, are revered and widely listened to even today.
She achieved international recognition when she became the first Indian musician to perform at the United Nations General Assembly in 1966, where her devotional rendition received worldwide acclaim. She also performed at prestigious venues across the world, spreading Indian culture and spirituality.
M. S. Subbulakshmi actively supported the Indian freedom movement through her music and often sang patriotic and devotional songs to inspire unity and national pride. Her life was marked by humility, discipline, and devotion to art.
She received numerous honors, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Bharat Ratna (1998)—making her the first musician to receive India’s highest civilian award.
M. S. Subbulakshmi passed away on 11 December 2004. She is remembered as a divine voice whose music transcends time, language, and boundaries, continuing to inspire generations with peace, devotion, and excellence. 🎶