Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj’s devotion towards music is a true example for keeping the roots of music alive. A deep believer of humility and love, Pandit Jasraj has flagged the way for Indian vocal classical music to echo across the world.
At a recent event in Houston, India House, a leading organization, representing Houston community, in the USA, recognized and honored Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj for his lifelong distinguished and exceptional contribution in the classical Indian arts, including popularizing Indian classical music, inspiring other artists and youth worldwide. The President of the India House honored Pandit Jasraj, in the presence of an exclusive gathering of prominent citizens, including prominent US Congressman Al Green. India House has in the past (2011) felicitated former President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Durga Jasraj, on hearing the news said, “Bapuji perseverance has yet again been recognised and awarded. As his daughter I feel immense happiness and as a citizen of India I feel pride. Bharat Ratna – Pandit Ravi Shankar ji always said about Bapuji that what he did for Indian Classical Instrumental Music across the world is what Pandit Jasraj is doing for India Classical Vocal worldwide! It’s a moment of pride for each one of us.”
In 1995, Pandit Jasraj’s students opened 1st school in Vancouver,B.C, Canada the Pandit Jasraj School of Music Foundation. After which many disciples of Pandit Jasraj spread out to run many schools in New York, New Jersey, Tampa- Florida, Pittsburg, Atlanta, and others… Pandit Jasraj spends few months every year teaching, performing and spreading the true essence of Indian Classical Vocal Music in the US. This has helped PJSMF become a brand that is synonymous with Indian Music in the US. Many of the schools have grown big and are now recognised as Institutes by the Government of U.S.A as well they also receive it patronage from them. In New York there is an auditorium named after him- Pandit Jasraj Auditorium.
Pandit Jasraj is the 1st Asian in whose name scholarship is given in any North American University to deserving young musician pursuing Indian Music. Toronto University gives Pandit Jasraj scholarship annually. Pandit Jasraj’s musical journey is an inspiration to every person who resonates with music more so because vocal music is the most direct medium of connecting with the soul. He has been passionately loyal to his soil, while his music has scaled ethereal heights all over the planet.
