Pandit Jasraj, one of the world’s most prominent Indian classical vocalists, has died of cardiac arrest in New Jersey, US at 90. He was a recipient of the Padma Shri , Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan .
The foremost exponent of the Mewati gharana moved away from Dhrupad and brought an element of devotional singing to khayal with an unmistakable element of bhakti rasa by employing harkats and murkis that were associated with light classical music.
“With profound grief we inform that Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj breathed his last this morning due to a cardiac arrest at his home in New Jersey,” a statement issued by his family stated, adding, “May Lord Krishna welcome him lovingly through the doors of heaven, where Pandit ji will now sing Om Nami Bhagwate Vasudevaya exclusively just for his beloved Lord.”
Everlasting Legacy
Born in 1930 in Hisar, he was groomed to be a vocalist early in his life, having been introduced to it by his father, Pandit Motiram. His early training included long tabla lessons under his elder brother Pandit Pratap Narayan, father of popular music directors Jatin-Lalit. Pandit Jasraj, though, often credited renowned vocalist Begum Akhtar for inspiring him. The innovation he came up with in his recitals got him a lot of criticism from the purists in the early days. As he ignored the barbs, his innovations became his signature, and greatly enriched the world of music, giving it a hitherto unknown flexibility. It helped widen his aura and brought in hordes of new followers. The Padma Vibhushan awardee was also a master of haveli sangeet and could speak for hours about its journey and rich history.
A keen student of philosophy and spirituality, he loved to spend time with J. Krishnamurti, who loved his singing. He taught music in several countries including the United States and many of his students went on to become famous musicians.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the maestro’s death has left a deep void in the country’s cultural sphere. “Not only were his renditions outstanding, he also made a mark as an exceptional mentor to several other vocalists. Condolences to his family and admirers worldwide. Om Shanti,” he tweeted.
President Ram Nath Kovind also condoled his death.”Music legend and unparalleled classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj’s passing makes me sad. Spanning a distinguished career of over 8 decades, Pandit Jasraj, a Padma Vibhushan recipient, enthralled people with soulful renditions. Condolence to his family, friends & music connoisseurs,” he tweeted.
The veteran vocalist was remembered by Bollywood stars as well as members of the music fraternity. AR Rahman, Vishal Dadlani, Adnan Sami and other musicians found an outlet on social media and Twitter has been deluged by tributes for Pandit Jasraj. Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman tweeted: “RIP Pandit Jasraj. Indian classical music has lost one of its shining stars.”
