Legendary Indian classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj passes away at 90

Guwahati: Legendary Indian classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj has died due to a cardiac arrest in New Jersey, US, at the age of  90.

Born in Haryana in 1930, Jasraj's musical career spanned eight decades. In the year 2000, he was awarded with Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour. Pandit Jasraj has taught music in India, Canada and the US.

"With profound grief, we inform that Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj Ji breathed his last this morning at 5.15 EST due to a cardiac arrest at his home in New Jersey, USA," a statement issued by his family read.

"May Lord Krishna welcome him lovingly through the doors of heaven, where Pandit ji will now sing Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya exclusively just for his beloved Lord. We pray that his soul rests in eternal musical peace. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers, Pandit Jasraj ji's family, and the students of Mewati Gharana," it added.

Jasraj, who belonged to the Mewati Gharana (musical lineage), was in the United States when the coronavirus triggered lockdown was effected in India. 

The maestro's death has been condoled by several leading personages, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Prime Minister, in a tweet said that not only were his renditions outstanding, but he also made a mark as an exceptional mentor to several other vocalists. "Condolences to his family and admirers worldwide. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister wrote.

President Ram Nath Kovind said the maestro's death has made him "sad." Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled the legendary musician's death.

"Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj ji was an incredible artist who enriched Indian classical music with his magical voice. His demise feels like a personal loss. He will remain in our hearts forever through his peerless creations. Condolences to his family and followers. Om Shanti," Shah tweeted.

"My condolences to famous classical singer, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Jasraj Ji. He has made immense contribution in the field of classical music. May God grant peace to his soul," Union Minister Nitin Gadkari tweeted in Hindi.

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