Pandit Jasraj was an institution, not just an artiste: Haryana CM

The birth anniversary of legendary classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj was celebrated on Monday at his native Pili Mandori village in Fatehabad district, with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attending the event as the chief guest. The Chief Minister reached the venue about 90 min.utes late due to inclement weather.

Cabinet Minister Ranbir Gangwa, Rajya Sabha MP Subhash Barala, Pandit Jasraj’s daughter Durga Jasraj, noted singer Anup Jalota and former minister Devender Babli were among those present. The Chief Minister also unveiled a statue of Pandit Jasraj at the village library.

Addressing the gathering, Saini said Pandit Jasraj “was an institution, not just an artiste”. He noted that the occasion was special as the birth anniversary coincided with the fourth anniversary of the Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, whose foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022. The foundation, he said, was playing a vital role in preserving and promoting Pandit Jasraj’s classical music legacy among younger generations.

Born in 1930 in Pili Mandori into a distinguished musical family, Pandit Jasraj lost his father at a young age but went on to become a global icon of Indian classical music. Saini said Haryana’s rich musical traditions bore the imprint of maestros like Pandit Jasraj.

Speaking emotionally, Durga Jasraj said all the recognition her father received was rooted in Pili Mandori. She urged the Chief Minister to establish a grand cultural centre and organise a major music festival in Panchkula. Saini assured her that the demands would be met.

Singer Anup Jalota also paid tribute to Pandit Jasraj, recalling his immense contribution to classical music, and rendered a devotional song.

Meanwhile, village sarpanch Dharamveer said a sitting Chief Minister had visited the village after nearly 22 years, the previous visit having been by then CM Om Prakash Chautala in 2004. Demands of the panchayat were submitted to the Chief Minister through former MLA Dura Ram. Saini announced a 33 kV power substation, grants for community buildings, renovation of the library, and assured that Bhattu sub-tehsil would be upgraded to a full tehsil along with the establishment of an ITI at Bhattu Mandi.