President Patil condoles death of vocalist Gangubai Hangal

New Delhi, July 21(ANI): President Pratibha Patil on Tuesday expressed her sorrow and grief over the death of renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Gangubai Hangal.

She breathed her last on Tuesday morning following a brief illness.

She is survived by two sons and a daughter.

"Gangubai Hangal was one of the most acclaimed exponents of Khyal Gayki of the Kirana Gharana and a doyen of Hindustani classical music. In her passing away, the nation has lost an accomplished and popular classical vocalist," President Pratibha Patil stated in her condolence message.

Born in 1913, Hangal studied under Sawai Gandharva. Her biography is titled Nanna Badukina Haadu (The Song Of My Life).

Hangal began her concert career with a performance at the Bombay Music Circle in 1933.

She was bestowed with several honours, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan award, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and the Tansen Samman. (ANI)