Classical singer, Girija Devi passed away after a cardiac arrest in Kolkata on Tuesday night. The Padma Vibhushan awardee was 88 years old and is survived by her daughter.
On Tuesday afternoon, the queen of Thumri was taken to BM Birla Heart Research Centre with cardiovascular ailments and was put on life support.
it is reported, the last rites would be conducted at the musician’s birthplace in Varanasi.
A hospital spokesperson explained, “Girija Devi’s condition was quite critical when she was brought to the hospital. She was admitted to the CCU and was under constant watch. But she passed away at around 8:45 P.M.”
Sarod player and composer, Vikash Maharaj said, “It is an irreparable loss to Indian music and Banaras Gharana of music. She was a guiding figure for us. She was ailing for some time, and admitted to BM Birla Hospital in Kolkata in the morning. She left for the heavenly abode in the evening.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave his condolences on Twitter, “Saddened by demise of Girija Devi ji. Indian Classical music has lost one of its most melodious voices. My thoughts are with her admirers.”
The legendary Benaras Gharana singer had received the Padma Shri in 1972, Padma Bhushan in 1989 and Padma Vibhushan in 2016.
