PM, Prez condole demise of Bhimsen Joshi

New Delhi, Jan 24 (PTI) President Pratibha Patil, VicePresident Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh todaycondoled the demise of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and said his losshas created a huge void in the world of music.

Describing Joshi as a doyen of Hindustani classicalmusic, the President said in his passing away, the nation haslost one of the greatest and most popular classical vocalists.

In his condolence message, the Vice President said Joshiwas unique in preserving tradition while incorporating newideas in his music.

"Joshi became a living tradition in Hindustani music withtremendous influence on classical musicians, music lovers andthe general public," Ansari said.

Condoling Joshi''s death, the Prime Minister said thenation and the music world has lost a towering musical geniusand the most famous and accomplished exponent of the Kiranagharana.

"Generations of listeners were enthralled by hismellifluous voice, mastery of rhythm and magnificentrenderings of bhajans and khayals. His rendering of the song''Mile Sur Mera Tumhara'' on the theme of national integrationis etched in the popular consciousness," Singh said.

Joshi, 87, died in Pune today after a prolonged illness.