Pandit Jasraj, an ambassador of our art and culture, no more.

New Delhi August 18 dmanewsdesk: The unfortunate demise of one of the doyens of Indian classical music, Pandit Jasraj at the age of 90 in New Jersey, USA. Pandit Jasraj suffered a cardiac arrest at 5.15 EST (2.45 pm IST), his daughter Durga Jasraj confirmed to PTI.

The legendary vocalist was honoured with all three Padma awards (Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan). His mesmerising rendition of classical singing and thumris, creating his own raag as well at the Legends of India Music Festivals in Delhi and Mumbai left the audience spellbound. Lately, he was teaching music nationally and internationally.

I fondly recall Pt.Jasraj ji’s sashtang pranam at my mother’s feet during his visit to my house for as he termed as ‘Maa ke haath ka khana,’ “Maa is Maa irrespective of  her age” was Pandit ji’s impromptu response to my astonishingly embarrassed mother. Pandit Jasraj was not only an ambassador of our art and culture but also a great soul. Condolences to his family and admirers worldwide.

The mortal remains of Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj will be brought to India from the US.