Devindra Murdeshwar

Devendra Murdeshwar (19 September 1923 – 29 January 2000) was a famous Indian bansuri (flute) player and an important figure in Hindustani classical music. He was born in Masur, Mysore State (present-day Karnataka, India) in a musical family. His father played instruments like violin, tabla, and flute as a hobby, which inspired Devendra Murdeshwar to develop an interest in music during his childhood. 

In his early years, he learned flute and tabla, but later decided to focus mainly on the bansuri. In 1941 he moved to Bombay (Mumbai) to receive advanced musical training. There he became a disciple of the legendary flute maestro Pannalal Ghosh, who is considered the pioneer of classical bansuri in Hindustani music. Under his guru’s guidance, Murdeshwar developed a deep understanding of raga music and flute performance. 

Devendra Murdeshwar later worked as a staff artist at All India Radio (AIR), which played an important role in spreading classical music across India. During his career he came into contact with many great musicians such as Allauddin Khan, Omkarnath Thakur, Mallikarjun Mansur, and Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. His performances at major music conferences and festivals helped him gain recognition as one of the leading flautists of his time. 

Murdeshwar also performed internationally and traveled to several countries as part of cultural delegations representing India. Besides performing, he was an influential teacher and mentor who trained many students, including well-known flautists like Nityanand Haldipur. He also contributed to the development and design of bansuri flutes and promoted the tradition of classical flute music. 

Devendra Murdeshwar passed away on 29 January 2000 at the age of 77 due to a heart attack. He is remembered as one of the important disciples of Pannalal Ghosh and a major figure who helped establish the bansuri as a respected instrument in Hindustani classical music. His legacy continues through his students and the many recordings and performances that keep his musical style alive.