Ravi Shankar - Ravi Shankar to receive Lifetime Achievement Grammy

Ravi Shankar to receive Lifetime Achievement Grammy

Ravi Shankar will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2013 Grammys.

The virtuoso sitar player - who is best known for his work with The Beatles and who's daughter is 33-year-old musician Norah Jones - passed away on Tuesday (11.12.12) following heart surgery and Grammy have revealed it was decided before his death he would be handed one of its highest awards.

The recording academy's President Neil Portnow said: ''Just last week, I had the honour to inform Ravi he would receive a 2013 Lifetime Achievement this February.

''He was deeply touched and so pleased, that he extended a gracious and personal invitation to visit with him at his home.

''We have lost an innovative and exceptional talent and a true ambassador of international music. Our thoughts and sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends and all of those around the world who were inspired by his music and compassionate philanthropy.''

Ravi, who was 92, will join past recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award including singer-songwriter Carole King, late pianist Glenn Gloud and jazz musician Charlie Haden.

Ravi's family - wife Sukanya, Norah and second daughter Anoushka Shankar Wright - released a statement on his passing, saying: ''As you all know, his health has been fragile for the past several years, and on Thursday he underwent a surgery that could have potentially given him a new lease of life.

''Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of the surgeons and doctors taking care of him, his body was not able to withstand the strain of the surgery. We were at his side when he passed away.

''We know that you all feel our loss with us, and we thank you for all of your prayers and good wishes through this difficult time.''