The annals of Hindustani classical music are rich with tales of mentorship and reverence, but none quite as heart-touching as Pandit Jasraj politely declining Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan’s invitation to become his shagird. This episode from 1960, shared by Jasraj himself, reveals the deep bonds that defined these icons.
Fresh in Mumbai, Jasraj and Dr. Mukundlal called on the bedridden Ustad. Their gesture of pressing his feet brought smiles, leading to the surprising offer: ‘Be my pupil.’ Jasraj’s response was rooted in filial piety—he was bound to preserve his father Pandit Motiram’s Mewati heritage, trained by brother Pandit Maniram. The Ustad, moved to tears, invoked divine blessings.
Born January 28, 1930, into a musical lineage, Jasraj’s journey began tragically early. Orphaned at four, he absorbed lessons from siblings. Childhood antics included garbled renditions of ‘Tirchi Nazar’ during paternal sargam sessions, met with loving corrections. A stage tabla debut at 11 pivoted to singing, where his voice’s enchantment shone.
Jasraj’s artistry transformed Mewati gharana, infusing it with devotional fervor. His ‘Jasrangi’ jugalbandi, uniting diverse voices in raag confluence, became legendary. Bhajans evoked divine ecstasy, captivating global audiences across continents. His performances in the US, Canada, and Europe drew fervent acclaim.
Even in death on August 17, 2020, Jasraj’s voice resonates, embodying the unyielding spirit of tradition and the tender humanity that bridged rival gharanas.
