Britain honors sitar player Ravi Shankar

LONDON, England (CNN) -- Renowned sitar player Ravi Shankar on has been named an honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), a distinction recognizing his efforts to bring Indian music to Western audiences.

"I am delighted Ravi Shankar has been given this honor," said Chris Smith, Great Britain's culture secretary, who welcomed Shankar Wednesday. "He has also introduced post-war generations throughout the West to the complexity and beauty of sitar music."

British High Commissioner Sir Rob Young named Shankar a CBE last week in New Delhi, India. The musician is in his 80s.

"No one has done more than Ravi Shankar to promote the understanding and love of Indian classical music in the West, and in particular in Britain," said Young. "This is a most fitting way of honoring an outstanding musician who is deeply respected in my country and indeed all over the world."

Department for Culture, Media and Sport
UK in India

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