Late Pandit Jasraj

Pandit Jasraj (1930 – 2020) was an Indian classical vocalist, belonging to the Mewati gharana. His musical career spanned 75 years resulting in national and international fame, respect and numerous major awards and accolades. He was honoured with Padma Sri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.

Unfortunately, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Jasraj left for his heavenly abode just a month before this compendium could be published. This article was his last work, told to his daughter, Durga Jasraj, just two days before he left his body. This is a tribute from the Vivekananda Youth Connect Foundation to the great personality of Pandit Jasraj.

I met a young, dynamic and extremely humble Chief Minister of Gujarat – Resp Shri Narendra Modi ji in 2003 at Gandhi Nagar… 

What struck me instantly was the strength in his voice and the sparkle in his eyes which dreamt of not just his state but of the entire nation! I shared my love for Sanand as my eldest brother and Guru Sangeet Mahamohpadhyay Pandit Maniram ji and me, were court musicians there for several years. We had gone to Gujarat before partition and stayed there for many years.  

We owe a lot to Sanand – infact it is during our stay in Sanand I was introduced to God and God’s miracles. From there emerged the famous bandish “Mata Kalika”, “Niranjani Narayani” and many others written by Sanand Maharaja Jaiwant singh ji Waghela and composed by Pandit Maniram ji that are a treasure of our Mewati Gharana and Indian Classical Music. For me it created a lifelong undying emotional and spiritual bond with Gujarat and its loving people. 

My first meeting with Modi ji came across as the swarup of Mata ji’s power. My 6th sense told me he is the chosen one to lead our country into its brightest ever, Golden era! 

Modi ji’s humility touched my soul endlessly when he came to see me off and waited for my car to drive away. At that moment, I experienced a flood of emotions, and prayers for Modi ji and for his dream for our great country. 

On the occasion of his 70th birthday, I wish and pray for Modi ji’s good health and applaud him for the many reforms he has brought in towards making India powerful, healthy and a global phenomenon… 

Modi ji’s impactful rise as a global leader is exemplary. It makes every Indian very proud.  

I would like to wish our beloved Modi ji a very Happy Birthday – may God shower his blessings on him in abundance. I pray in his leadership India achieves the status of developed super power of the world, where knowledge and culture are its most powerful tools.  

As told to Durga Jasraj