Ek ghazal sunaata hun

SD Sharma

Ghazal usne chhedi, mujhe saaz dena

Zara umer-e- rafta ko awaaz dena………

The Urdu couplet veritably establishes the prominence and popularity of literary and musical genre of ghazal. Originally eulogised as Love song in Persian the ghazal later dominated the Urdu literary traditions in its new avatar with extended thematic range and musicology.

Having listened to legends like Mehdi Hasan and Jagjit Singh, a five- year-old child prodigy, Jitender Singh from a musical family of Jammu resolved to be a ghazal singer.

With the blessings of his parents and guru Pandit Mani Parsad of Kirana Gharna, the Delhi-based ghazal and thumri singer Jitender Singh achieved academic advancement and artistic excellence. In a conversation with Life + Style, Jitender Singh talks about his journey and what inspired him to sing ghazals.

“Believe me it was too difficult to resist the temptation of meaningful lyrics woven in classical music. I couldn’t understand the lyrics much, but I did relish the melody. It was all due to my guru Pandit. Mani Parsad, who unlike others permitted me to sing any form of music but in perfect sur laya and taal. My professional association as a singer composer with Kathak legend Guru Birju Maharaj at Government Kathak Kendra too embellished my music.

What do you have to say about the loss of ghazal king Jagjit Singh?

The world idolises and admires Jagjit Singh as an epitome of perfection, humanity, struggle, dedication and commitment. He had worked very hard to attain perfection as a music maestro.

Are there any takers for performing arts in your family?

Ours is a family of musicians but not professionals. My wife, Kanika Gosh is an established Kathak dancer. One of her students happens to be Tapsee Pannu, a Bollywood actress.