Pt Bhimsen Joshi — a tribute by Amjad Ali Khan

(Singer) Pandit Bhimsen Joshi’s passing away marks the end of an era of a timeless legacy.  He was truly a monumental icon of music and the Kohinoor of our music world.

On hearing of Panditji’s ill health a few months ago, I had called his residence in Pune and conveyed my greetings to him. I could feel the ecstasy of joy and happiness in his voice. I felt happy to talk to him after such a long time. Over the last few months, it was sad to learn about his deteriorating health. Ironically, I had a concert the other day in Pune and I visited him in the hospital.

Pandit Bhimsen Joshi belonged to the unique Kirana gharana. In fact, as a young struggling musician, he heard a recording of Abdul Karim Khan Saheb of Kirana Gharana singing Piya milan ki aas and Piya bin nahin awat chain, both Thumris. Panditji had often mentioned that the appeal and impact of this recording was so powerful that he seriously decided to become a classical vocalist.

My father always said that it’s more interesting and satisfying to see a student mention that so-and-so is my guru as opposed to the guru claiming students! I witnessed a testimony to this statement when I had invited Bhimsenji to sing at my father’s memorial festival in Mumbai in 1975.

Panditji mentioned that during his struggling days he learnt from many great gurus but he also came to Gwalior for three years and learnt from my father, Ustad Haafiz Ali Khan Saheb. In fact, he lived at our house (now Sarod Ghar, the museum) at Jiwaji Ganj in Gwalior. Panditji especially mentioned about learning the intricacies of Raga Maarwa and Raga Puriya. As both the ragas have the same musical notes, to maintain the character of each is a challenge for all artists. Panditji often mentioned that if any classical musician can sing and differentiate the character of both the ragas then he will be considered of some stature.

Panditji became the symbol of vocal music in India.
I am happy that the Government of India had bestowed Pt. Bhimsen Joshi with the country’s highest civilian honour Bharat Ratna while he was actively serving the world of music. I will miss him to no end and the time and years that I have spent with him with remain in my heart for eternity. May his soul rest in peace!
—Amjad Ali Khan