Pune, February 10: Pandit Bhimsen Joshi was a legendary figure in Indian classical music, renowned for his captivating voice and artistry. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, on February 10, 2009, at his home in Pune.
Hailing from the Kirana Gharana, Joshi was particularly celebrated for his renditions in the khayal style and devotional songs. Born on February 4, 1922, in Gadag district, Karnataka, his father was a school teacher. From a young age, Joshi displayed a profound passion for music. He would often stop at gramophone shops on his way home from school to listen to records and learn from them.
His obsession with music led him to leave home at just 11 years old in search of a guru. Lacking money for a ticket, he boarded a train without one. When the ticket collector asked for his ticket, he explained his situation. The collector was ready to impose a fine, but Joshi mesmerized everyone by singing Raag Bhairav. The passengers were so moved that they paid for his ticket and fine, allowing him to reach Bijapur.
A significant influence on his musical journey was his guru, Sawai Gandharva. Joshi spent several years living with his guru, mastering ragas like Todi, Puriya, Bhairav, and Yaman. At the age of 19, he gave his first public performance and later became a radio artist in Mumbai. For Joshi, music was not merely a means of expression but a spiritual practice. He dedicated over seven decades to classical singing, known for his depth, purity of notes, and exquisite melodies.
In addition to khayal, he also sang thumri, tappa, bhajan, and theatrical music. His favorite ragas included Yaman, Shuddha Kalyan, Marubihag, Bihag, Basant Bahar, Miyan Malhar, Abhogi, and Darbari. His artistry elevated Indian music to new heights.
Joshi’s contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1972, Padma Bhushan in 1985, and Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, Karnataka Ratna, and Maharashtra Bhushan awards.
Pandit Bhimsen Joshi passed away on January 24, 2011, in Pune.
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