Music exponents condole Bhimsen Joshi''s demise

Mumbai, Jan 24 (PTI) The Indian music fraternity todayplunged into grief following the demise of legendary vocalistPandit Bhimsen Joshi, describing him as the "Kohinoor" ofHindustani classical music.Pandit Jasraj said he was shocked and saddened at thenews of Panditji''s death in the early hours. "This is sunsetat sunrise," he said.

"He did not belong to any particular gharana, but tothe entire Hindustani music world. Joshi had held music loversspell bound over the last several decades," Jasraj said.

Pandit Satish Vyas described Pandit Bhimsen Joshi asthe "Kohinoor" of Indian classical music.

"Classical music was meant for a particular class. ButPanditji crossed such barriers and brought the music closerto the common man. The intelligentsia and also the laymanapplauded his music and this was one of his greatestcontributions," he said.

Singers Suresh Wadkar and Arti Ankliker-Tikekar alsocondoled the passing away of the classical music doyen andsaid the void will be difficult to fill.

Bhajan and ghazal singer Anup Jalota said, "I lost myfather a week ago and now Panditji is no more. Both of themwere towering personalities in Bhajan and Hindustani vocalmusic and came together for several programmes. The Indianmusic scene has been orphaned."

Condoling his death, classical singer Begum ParveenSultana said, "He was like an elder brother to me. He was theperson who introduced us to Maharashtra".

Vocalist Shounak Abhisheki said Joshi was the"Bhishmpitamah" of Hindustani classical music.

"He has an immortal place in this field and heachieved this position due to his devotion, dedication andcommitment to music," he said.

Abhisheki said Pandjitji was both a great human beingand a musician. "His life is an inspiration to new generationof musicians like me and following the path laid down by himwould be the greatest tribute." .