New Delhi: World’s most prominent Indian Classical Vocalists Pandit Jasraj (90) passes away in New Jersey, US with cardiac arrest. According to the Jasraj’s family statement, “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”.

“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.

He was born in Haryana in 1930; his musical career spanned eight decades. Many of his notable stage performances were converted into music albums. He taught music in several countries including the United States and many of his students went on to become famous musicians.

Jasraj was the recipient of India’s fourth highest civilian award – Padma Shri in 1975; Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987 and Padma Bhushan in 1999. In the year 2000, the government of India conferred him with Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour in the country.

Condolences: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his condolence message in a tweet said that 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”.

President Ram Nath Kovind in a tweet said condolences of 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”.

Union Ministers Amit Shah and S Jaishankar also offered their tributes to the maestro. Music composers AR Rehman and Shankar Mahadevan also paid their tributes. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu also condoled the death of the music legend, saying he created timeless masterpieces in Indian classical music. “Saddened to learn about demise of Pandit Jasraj, the master Indian classical vocalist. Over his eight decades-long career, he created timeless masterpieces in Indian classical music”.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Benerjee said his contribution to Indian classical music is immense and will always be cherished. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said: “Saddened to hear about the demise of musical legend Pandit Jasraj. Deepest condolences to his family. Om Shanti.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said with his art, Pandit Jasraj gave new peaks to the world of music. “With him gone, a great musical note has become silent”.

Pandit Jasraj’s immortal songs will always resonate in the hearts of his fans, said Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. Several others including poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar, CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechuri, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, as well as political parties expressed grief after the death of Pandit Jasraj.