Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 233

Which of these Indian Singers has not received the Bharat Ratna award?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the highest civilian award in India and which singers have received it.

Correct Answer: B) Asha Bhosle.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award in India, established in 1954. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service in any field, including the arts, literature, science, and public service. The award is a symbolic honor, consisting of a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President of India and a medallion. It is conferred by the President of India on recommendation of the Government of India.

Among the singers listed in the question, Lata Mangeshkar, Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, and M.S. Subbulakshmi have all received the Bharat Ratna. Lata Mangeshkar, often referred to as the "Nightingale of India," received the award in 2001 for her contributions to Indian music. Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist, was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2008 for his significant contributions to the field of music. M.S. Subbulakshmi, a celebrated Carnatic vocalist, received the Bharat Ratna in 1998 for her contributions to Carnatic music.

Asha Bhosle, while being one of the most prolific and successful playback singers in the Indian film industry, has not received the Bharat Ratna. She has, however, received numerous other prestigious awards, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Bhushan. Despite her immense contributions to Indian music, she has not been conferred the Bharat Ratna, making her the correct answer to the question.

It is important to note that the Bharat Ratna is a highly selective award, and not all renowned artists or individuals in their respective fields receive it. The selection process is rigorous, and the award is given to individuals who have made an exceptional impact in their field and have contributed significantly to the nation's cultural, scientific, or social development.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. Lata Mangeshkar received the Bharat Ratna in 2001 for her contributions to Indian music.
  • Option B: Correct. Asha Bhosle, despite her significant contributions to Indian music, has not received the Bharat Ratna award.
  • Option C: Incorrect. Pt. Bhimsen Joshi received the Bharat Ratna in 2008 for his contributions to Hindustani classical music.
  • Option D: Incorrect. M.S. Subbulakshmi received the Bharat Ratna in 1998 for her contributions to Carnatic music.

Mnemonic: LBS: Lata, Bhimsen, Subbulakshmi (all have received Bharat Ratna)

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