Krishna condoles demise of Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi

New Delhi, Jan 24 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has deeply condoled the passing away of Bharat Ratna Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

Krishna in his message said: "Not only India but the entire world has lost a shining light of music and a master of its intricacies. Panditji's contribution to the classical Indian music and to introducing this rich heritage of India to the world is eternal and second to none.

"His glorious artistry will continue to pervade the hearts and minds of music lovers all over the world," he added.

The External Affairs Minister also expressed his deep condolence to the bereaved family and said he joined them in praying for peace to the departed soul.

Pandit Bhimsen Joshi passed away this morning at Pune's Sahyadri Hospital after a prolonged illness. He was 89.

Pandit Bhimsen Joshi was admitted to the hospital following renal and respiratory complications on December 31.

He is survived by three sons and a daughter

A music marvel, who lifted listeners to a divine experience with his singing, Pandit Joshi was born in Gadag, Karnataka, on February 4, 1922.

He gave a live performance at the age of 19 and his debut album on devotional songs in Kannada and Hindi made waves at the age of 22.

Apart from Hindustani classical music, Joshi sang for several films - like Basant Bahar andd Tansen.

He was honoured with the country's highest civilian awards like the Padma Shree, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Maharashtra Bhushan, Karnataka Ratna and Bharat Ratna. (ANI)