Bhimsen Joshi Birth Anniversary: February 4, 2024

Every year, February 4 is observed as the birth anniversary of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, a great Indian vocalist. This year will mark the 103rd Pandit Bhimsen Joshi’s and will be commemorated with a yearlong series of events. Hindustani classical musician Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, known as the country’s Tansen, opened the world of Hindustani classical music to the general public. Bharat Ratna was bestowed upon him in 2008. Today, the Films Division is honouring the music master by screening a film on his life and work. Gulzar, a filmmaker and poet, directs “Pt Bhimsen Joshi,” a film about the life and music of pandit Bhimsen Joshi. 

When Bhimsen Joshi was a kid, he was fascinated by instruments like the harmonium and the tanpura. Channappa of Kurtakot was his initial teacher, and afterwards he studied under Pandit Shyamacharya Joshi. In accordance with the guru-shishya parampara, Panadit Bhimsen Joshi studied under Sawai Gandharva in 1936. The Kirana Gharana belonged to Pandit Bhimsen Joshi. In 1941, at the age of 19, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi gave his first public performance as a musician. HMV released his first album of devotional tunes in 1942.

Pandit Bhimsen Joshi is recognised for his outstanding ragas such as Shuddha Kalyan, Miyan Ki Todi, Puriya Dhanashri, Multani, Bhimpalasi, Darbari, Malkauns, Yaman, Asavari Todi, Miyan Ki Malhar, and others.
Khayal, bhajan, and abhang performances by the music maestro continue to mesmerise listeners.