Ustad Bismillah Khan (21st March 1916–21st August 2006) was a shehnai player from India. The term "Ustad" or "Pandit" in relation to Indian classical music means Master or Guru. He was the third classical musician to be awarded the Bharat Ratna (in 2001), the highest civilian honour in India. He also had the distinction of being one of the few people to be awarded all the top four civilian awards. Ustad Bismillah Khan was born on 21st March 1916 at Bhirung Raut Ki Gali, in Dumraon, the second son of Paigambar Khan and Mitthan.