Bismillah Khan's family denies bulldozer demolition claims in Varanasi

The descendants of renowned shehnai maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan have dismissed assertions that government-ordered demolition work was carried out at his ancestral residence in Varanasi's Dumraon area. The family clarified that the renovation and reconstruction of the dilapidated structure is being undertaken privately, without any state assistance.

According to the Khan family's statement, the restoration project aims to preserve the heritage significance of the property while making it functional. The redevelopment plan includes converting the ground floor into a museum dedicated to the Bharat Ratna awardee's life and contributions to Indian classical music, while the upper floors will serve as residential quarters for family members.

The family emphasized that no government funds or intervention have been sought for the reconstruction work, which they are financing through their own resources. The clarification came after recent public statements suggesting official involvement in demolition activities at the historic site, which has been the residence of the Khan family for generations.

Ustad Bismillah Khan, who passed away in 2006, was one of India's most celebrated shehnai players and received the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honor, in 2001. His Varanasi home holds significant cultural importance for music enthusiasts and heritage conservationists across India.