'Pt. Bhimsen Joshi never misbehaved after drinking' ÔÇô Pt. Ram Narayan
MUMBAI: The complete words of Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, a 14 CD pack released by music label Saregama was unveiled on Saturday by music veteran sarangi maestro Pt. Ramnarayan, composer Ashok Patki and Director of Cultural Affairs Ajay Ambekar.
Various facets of Panditji's life like - his love for fast cars, and the eagerness to don the role of the mechanic were all part of the concert 'Kanan Daras Karo' that was conceptualized by his son.
Srinivas Joshi (Pt. Bhimsen Joshi's son) gave him a thematic tribute on the occasion and highlighted the various facets of his illustrious father by the means of various bandish. This tribute highlighted his musical struggle when he started of, his popularity for singing abhangs, and the way he silenced critics with his roaring voice.
"Many critics would come to listen to Panditji when he was young, but before they could start noting his faults, they would get floored by his roaring voice," said Srinivas.
Popular Marathi composer Ashok Patki recalled a funny incident when Pt. Bhimsen Joshi recorded for 'Mile Sur Mera Tumhara' –popular ode for national integration.
"Each artiste just had 20 seconds to sing their parts. By the time Panditji would finish his aalaap - his 20 seconds were already over," said Patki. It seems Pt. Bhimsen Joshi's part for the song was recorded in full and later the required part was inserted into the original song.
Long time friend Pt. Ram Narayan, who unveiled the compilation album also spoke openly about Panditji's drinking habits. "Whatever he did was for music - even drinking. Though at times he would drink a little too much – he never misbehaved, it was for music.... he added. The veteran sarangi player also expressed his displeasure over the commercialization of music.
Pt. Bhimsen Joshi was unable to attend the event on health grounds. Many fans attended this unique tribute concert which was not just about his music but his characteristics and his life. Ironically, very few from the music industry attended the event.
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