The Indian classical music fraternity has suffered a massive loss with the passing of Padma Shri-winning Sitar maestro Pandit Manilal Nag at the age of 88. He breathed his last late Monday night in Kolkata. The news of his demise has left music lovers and artists across the globe in deep sorrow as they mourn the departure of a legendary figure.
Tributes Pour In From Leadership
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari took to social media to share the heartbreaking news with the public. Posting a photograph of the late Sitar exponent on his official X handle, he described the musician's passing as the end of an era. The Chief Minister highlighted that a void has been created in West Bengal and the broader world of Hindustani classical music that will be extremely difficult to fill. He extended his deepest condolences to the grieving family, disciples, and admirers spread across the world.
Roots in the Historic Bishnupur Gharana
Pandit Manilal Nag was a prominent torchbearer of West Bengal's historic and centuries-old Bishnupur Gharana. Born on August 16, 1939, in the Bankura district of West Bengal, he represented the core of a 400-year-old musical tradition. He received his foundational training in music from his father and guru, Sangeet Acharya Gokul Chandra Nag. Through his relentless dedication, he brought international recognition to classical music adorned with the Dhrupad style.
A Legacy of Honors and Broadcasts
In recognition of his monumental contributions to Indian classical music, he was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri in 2020. He etched his name in history as the very first musician from the Bishnupur Gharana to receive this esteemed civilian honor. Over the course of his illustrious career, he also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award along with several other notable accolades. His passion for music, mastery over the Sitar, and dedication to teaching the younger generation set him apart. Notably, he performed for All India Radio for over five decades.
