B. Shankar Rao

After obtaining his initial music training from his sister Smt. Balaamba he got the opportunity to learn flute from the flute mastero T. R. Mahalingam (popularly known as Flute Mali). His music was also influenced from his interactions with Veena Rajarayaru and Anooru Suryanarayana. Over the years he has enthralled audience both in India and abroad with his characteristic style of flute techniques reminiscent of Mali.

Vidwan B Shankar Rao worked as a Post Master for most of his life but his passion for Carnatic classical music made him come home often from his place of posting. Finally he settled in Bangalore. Till date he has given many flute concerts not only in many places in India but also abroad. He has received many accolades and awards throughout his music career. The prestigious Rajyothsava award was conferred on him in the year 2008.

He currently runs an institution called 'Prapancha',[1] aimed at educating and influencing the young about flute and classical carnatic music. Apart from teaching music and giving concerts he is also actively involved in research collaboration with Divakars speciality hospital in Bangalore, aimed at studying the influence of carnatic music on human health.[2]

He has been bestowed with the title 'Venugana Visharada' by Dr. A. N. Krishna Rao (fondly known as Anakru) and was honoured with the title of 'Sangeetha Kalarathna' by the Bangalore Gayana Samaja in 2002. In 2008, the Govt. of Karnataka honoured him with the prestigious Rajyotsava Prashasti for his achievements and services in the field of carnatic music.

• The official site of B. Shankar Rao's music institute