As we commemorate the 83rd birth anniversary of Jagjit Singh on February 8, 2024, the maestro of ghazals, none can deny the profound impact he left on the world of music.
Jagjit Singh, often referred to as the ‘Ghazal King’, revolutionised the genre, making it accessible to the common man with his soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics. His contribution to Indian music transcends generations, and his legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide.
Born on February 8, 1941, Jagjit Singh showed an inclination towards music from a young age. His formal training began in classical music under the guidance of Pandit Chaganlal Sharma. However, it was his meeting with the renowned ghazal singer, Ustad Jamal Khan that shaped his musical journey. Under Ustad Jamal Khan’s tutelage, Jagjit Singh honed his skills and developed a unique style that blended classical ragas with contemporary elements.
Jagjit Singh’s discography is adorned with timeless classics that have etched themselves into the hearts of music lovers. His soothing voice and emotive renditions breathed new life into the world of ghazals. From soulful melodies like Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho to heart-wrenching compositions like Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya, each song carried a depth of emotion that resonated with listeners on a profound level.
One of his most iconic albums, Mirza Ghalib, remains a masterpiece in ghazal history. Singh’s rendition of Ghalib’s poetry captured the essence of love, longing, and melancholy with unparalleled finesse. Another gem in his repertoire is Woh Kagaz Ki Kashti, a poignant reflection on life’s transient nature, which continues to evoke nostalgia and introspection.
Singh’s collaborations with his wife, Chitra Singh, further enriched the ghazal landscape. Together, they delivered memorable performances, weaving magic with their harmonious duets. Songs like Yeh Tera Ghar Yeh Mera Ghar and Hazaron Khwahishen Aisi stand as testaments to their musical chemistry and artistic brilliance.
Singh played a pivotal role in popularising ghazals beyond elite circles, making them accessible to the common man. He broke barriers by infusing contemporary elements into traditional compositions, attracting a younger audience while retaining the essence of the genre. His ability to connect with listeners from diverse backgrounds earned him widespread acclaim and adoration.
Bharat Ratna, Late Lata Mangeshkar, once remarked, “Jagjit Singh’s voice had a rare quality that could soothe the most troubled soul. He elevated ghazals to new heights and will always be remembered as a maestro par excellence.”
Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, who collaborated with Singh on several memorable soundtracks, described him as “the voice of the masses, whose melodies resonated with people from all walks of life.”
The gems that Padma Bhushan awardee Late Jagit Singh left behind will forever be hummed and sung.
