MUMBAI : Legendary Carnatic singer M Balamurlikrishna passed away on 22 November 2016, saddening several industry folks for whom he had been an icon, inspiration and teacher.

Percussionist Sivamani told Radioandmusic.com, "It is a shock and a big loss for us. Guruji was the best. I am honoured I had an opportunity to perform with him and we had been close. I would keep praying for his soul.”

Composer Shankar Mahadevan told us, “We have grown up listening to him. For me, Balamurli ji is a genius, he defines the word genius perfectly. Very few artistes come up with inventions and Balamurli ji was one of them. He has invented beautiful raagas which earlier did not exist. I have personally interacted with him many times but unfortunately could not get a chance to perform with him. Though it is a big loss, I am sure the music will not stop.”

Hariharan , playback and ghazal singer said,“Balamurli ji was one of the biggest professional singers with many experiences. He was composing songs since childhood. As a human being, he was very simple and communicative. I remember an incidence - in one of the kids' reality show a performer sang well, all he said was "Wow, I could not have sung so well in my childhood." His simplicity always grabbed attention. I have been very close to him and had many opportunities to perform with him. He was a great man.”

Singer Shubha Mudgal shared one of her memories with Balamurli ji too. "Dr M Balamurali Krishna had very generously consented to perform for the first edition of Baajaa Gaajaa, a music festival that my husband Aneesh Pradhan and I started in 2009. Not only did Balamuralikrishna Sir accept our invitation, but he came fully prepared with a list of recordings that he played to the audience with insightful remarks, in addition to captivating the audience with his unique voice and style. And with his characteristic candour he also declared that his music had not been influenced by anyone. I mourn the passing of this iconic musician and offer my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and his extended family of disciples and music lovers.

Adnan Sami intimated his feelings via Twitter. “Sad demise of Dr Balamuralikrushna. Total Genius! Grew up listening 2 his Vocals & Violin. Loved his jugalbandis with Pt.Bhimsen Joshi. RIP”

Composer AR Rahman tweeted - “From All of us at KM CONSERVATORY ..Respect and prayers for the legendary Balamurali ji.”

An icon has passed, but his memories will be cherished for a long time by everyone.