The correct answer is 1998.

Here's a detailed solution with additional information:

M.S. Subbulakshmi:

• Madurai Shanmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi (1916-2004), popularly known as M.S. Subbulakshmi, was a renowned Carnatic classical vocalist.   
• She is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of her time.
• Her music transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, earning her global recognition.

Bharat Ratna:

• The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award.   
• It is conferred in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order, without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex.   

M.S. Subbulakshmi and the Bharat Ratna:

• In 1998, M.S. Subbulakshmi was honored with the Bharat Ratna for her outstanding contributions to Carnatic music.   
• She was the first musician to receive the Bharat Ratna.   

Therefore, the answer is 1998.

Correct Answer:

✅ 1998

Detailed Explanation:

• Madurai Shanmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi (M.S. Subbulakshmi), one of India's greatest Carnatic classical singers, was awarded India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1998.
• She became the first musician and the first female artist to receive the Bharat Ratna, highlighting her remarkable contributions to Indian classical music.

About M.S. Subbulakshmi:

• Born: 16 September 1916, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
• Died: 11 December 2004, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Renowned globally as an iconic figure in Carnatic music.
• Known for her divine voice and devotional performances, especially renditions of devotional hymns like Bhaja Govindam, Vishnu Sahasranama, and compositions of Saint Tyagaraja.
• Also known for popularizing classical music among common people.

Other Major Awards Received by MS Subbulakshmi:

• Padma Bhushan: 1954
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Award: 1956
• Ramon Magsaysay Award: 1974
• Padma Vibhushan: 1975
• Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration: 1990

Correct Answer: 1998

Detailed Explanation:

1. About M.S. Subbulakshmi (1916–2004)

• Full Name: Madurai Shanmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi
• Legendary Carnatic vocalist and the first musician to receive the Bharat Ratna.
• Renowned for her devotional renditions (e.g., "Venkateswara Suprabhatam", "Bhajagovindam").

2. Bharat Ratna Award Year

• Awarded in 1998 (announced on January 26, 1998, Republic Day).
• Ceremony: Received from President K.R. Narayanan on March 30, 1998.
• Citation: Recognized for her exceptional contribution to Indian classical music and culture.

3. Why Not Other Years?

• 1995: Bharat Ratna was awarded to Morarji Desai (freedom fighter and ex-PM).
• 1996: No Bharat Ratna awarded this year.
• 1997: Awarded to Aruna Asaf Ali (posthumously) and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

4. Key Achievements of M.S. Subbulakshmi

• First Indian musician to perform at the UN General Assembly (1966).
• Ramon Magsaysay Award (1974) for her cultural impact.
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1956) and Padma Bhushan (1954).

5. Significance

• Her Bharat Ratna highlighted Carnatic music’s national importance.
• Often called the "Queen of Music" (Sangeeta Ratna).

Final Answer:

✅ 1998 (M.S. Subbulakshmi was honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 1998.)

Did You Know?
She donated all her concert earnings to charity, reflecting her humility despite global fame.