89-year-old Padma Vibhushan awardee legendary Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Chhannulal Mishra passed away on Thursday. News of demise was shared by his daughter Namrata Mishra, with whom Chhannulal ji was staying for a while now, owing to prolonged illness. On Wednesday night, after his health deteriorated he was admitted in a hospital where he breathed last. Namrata shared, “He was admitted to the hospital for the last 17-18 days with age-related issues. He passed away at home this morning at around 4 a.m.”

PM Modi paid tribute

PM Modi paid tribute to the legendary singer, he wrote on his X account, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of renowned classical vocalist Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Ji. He remained dedicated throughout his life to the enrichment of Indian art and culture. Along with bringing classical music to the masses, he made invaluable contributions in establishing Indian traditions on the global stage. I feel fortunate to have always received his affection and blessings. In 2014, he was also my proposer for the Varanasi seat. In this moment of grief, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family members and admirers. Om Shanti!”

Who was Pandit Chhannulal Mishra?

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was born in Azamgarh in 1936. Chhannulal ji rose to become a legendary figure in Hindustani classical music. He made significant contributions to different styles like Khayal, Thumri, Dadra, Chaiti, Kajri, and Bhajan. Exponent of the Banaras gharana, he specialised in Purab Ang tradition of Thumri. In 2010, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan and in 2020, he received Padma Vibhushan.

Pandit ji is survived by a son and 3 daughters, his wife and one daughter passed away 4 years back. Today his last rites will be held in Varanasi at 5 p.m.

What Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi said about Pandit ji?

Calling the death of Pandit ji a monumental loss to Indian music, Folk singer and Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi said his art had a unique charm, he could effortlessly blend speech and song instantly for audiences.

Speaking to the media, she shared, “He lived in a small room where he slept, practised, and prepared for his performances. His deep devotion to Lord Ram was evident everywhere in his home, filled with deities, and his music and teachings reflected this spiritual essence.”

She recalled a memory where Pandit Mishra recited Ram Chaupal before the guests. She called him a sea of wisdom, he had countless devotional songs memorized.

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