The Indian Classical music legend Pandit Jasraj passed away at the age of 90 at his New Jersey home on Monday. He passed away after suffering from a cardiac arrest.
One of India’s music greats, Jasraj, who belonged to the Mewati Gharana, had a musical career that spanned over 8 decades.
His family issued this statement upon his demise.
“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,”.
Pandit Jasraj was bestowed with honours such as Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, India's highest honor.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media and shared his condolences.
The unfortunate demise of Pandit Jasraj Ji leaves a deep void in the Indian 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. pic.twitter.com/6bIgIoTOYB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 17, 2020
Singer Salim Merchant also paid condolences over Twitter.
Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj ji has left us.. his voice & music has inspired & left a deep impact on the history of Indian classical music.
— salim merchant (@salim_merchant) August 17, 2020
Om Shanti 🙏#RIPPanditJasraj
A year ago a minor planet, between Mars and Jupiter, was named after the celebrated musician.
Expressing his happiness, Pandit Jasraj remarked, "This is beyond my dreams. In this honour, one can experience only God’s Grace. For me, the proximity of the minor planet to Jupiter (Guru as per Hindu Astrology) is an indication that my Gurus willed it with their blessings. Music spreads love and unites souls. I am truly humbled, but this honour belongs to our divine Indian Classical Music, our great nation... Jai Ho.”
The music legen leaves behind his daughter Durga Jasraj and son Shaarang Dev Pandit.
Photo courtesy of Instagram