M. S. Subbulakshmi, recognized as one of India's greatest singers and the Queen of Carnatic Music, passed away on 11th December 2004 at the age of 88. M. S. Subbulakshmi was born on 16th September 1916 in Madurai to a family of traditional musicians. She rapidly made a name for herself from her late twenties, and in her career, she established herself not just as a singer of Carnatic music, but as a performer of Hindu religious works. Subbulakshmi was the first Indian musician ever to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 1998, and she was also awarded the Ramon Magsaysay award in 1974. Between the 1940s and 1970s, M.S. Subbulakshmi gave numerous recitals both in India and abroad, and performed in concerts throughout the world. Subbulakshmi also starred in a few films, two of which - "Meera" (1947) and "Sai Satcharita" (1972) - were based on Hindu devotional works. Subbulakshmi's music and performances inspired generations of singers in India. Her death left a void in the Indian music and musical traditions that few will be able to fill. She will be remembered for centuries to come as one of the greatest Indian musicians.