Pt Bhimsen Joshi cremated with state honours

Pune, Jan 24 (PTI) External Affairs Minister S MKrishna today joined the country in paying tributes to BharatRatna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, who was cremated here.

Krishna, who flew in from the national capital in aspecial flight, described Joshi as a legend in his ownlifetime and one of the greatest musicians ever born.

Krishna, representing Prime Minister Manmohan Singhand UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, also placed a wreath andtook part in the ceremonial gun salute that was accorded tothe titan of the Indian music world.

"A glorious era of hindustani classical music has cometo an end...He (Joshi) was truly a bharat ratna in the realsense of the term. The youngsters, who are in the music scene,has so much to be inspired by a legendary figure like him. Onbehalf of the Government of India, on behalf of the people, Iwould like to convey our severe condolences to his immediatefamily. In a sense, the whole of India was a family to PanditBhimsen Joshi," Krishna said.

In a statement released by the Ministry of ExternalAffairs, Krishna was quoted as saying, "In his demise, notonly India but the entire world has lost a shining light ofmusic and a master of its intricacies.

"Panditji�s contribution to the classical Indian musicand to introducing this rich heritage of India to the world iseternal and second to none. His glorious artistry willcontinue to pervade the hearts and minds of music lovers allover the world." PTI SAP