Understanding the Classical Instrument Santoor

The question asks to identify a famous exponent of the Santoor instrument from the given list of renowned Indian classical musicians. The Santoor is a string musical instrument originating from Kashmir. It is played with two small hammers, known as 'mezrab'. In Indian classical music, especially Hindustani classical music, certain instruments are strongly associated with specific legendary musicians who have significantly contributed to their popularity and evolution.

Analysing the Options for Santoor Exponents

Let's examine each option to determine their primary instrument or area of expertise in Indian classical music:

• Pandit Kumar Gandharva: He was a celebrated Hindustani classical vocalist, known for his unique style and interpretations of traditional ragas. His primary focus was vocal music, not instrumental music like the Santoor.
• Pandit Bhimsen Joshi: A leading figure in Hindustani classical vocal music, particularly known for the Kirana Gharana style. He was a legendary vocalist and not associated with playing the Santoor.
• Pandit Shivkumar Sharma: He is widely credited with transforming the Santoor, a folk instrument, into a popular instrument for Indian classical music. His contributions have been monumental in bringing the Santoor to the classical stage and gaining international recognition for it. He is undeniably a master and exponent of the Santoor.
• Pandit Ravi Shankar: An internationally acclaimed musician and composer, known primarily for playing the Sitar, another prominent Indian classical string instrument. He is not an exponent of the Santoor.

Identifying the Correct Santoor Player

Based on the analysis of each option, it is clear that Pandit Shivkumar Sharma is the only musician listed who is a globally recognized exponent of the Santoor in Indian classical music.

Conclusion on Santoor Exponent

Therefore, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma is the correct answer as he is a master and famous exponent of the Santoor instrument.

Revision Table: Classical Indian Musicians & Instruments

Additional Information: The Santoor in Indian Classical Music

The Santoor played in Indian classical music, primarily associated with Pandit Shivkumar Sharma and his disciple Rahul Sharma, is a trapezoid-shaped hammered dulcimer. It has around 100 strings, played with lightweight wooden mallets. While similar instruments exist in other parts of the world (like the Hammered Dulcimer in the West or the Santur in Iran), Pandit Shivkumar Sharma adapted it for Indian classical performance, developing new techniques and a style suitable for playing Hindustani ragas.

His work has been crucial in establishing the Santoor as a respected classical instrument alongside the Sitar, Sarod, and others. He has composed music and performed extensively, both solo and in collaborations, significantly enriching the Indian classical music landscape.