How Did Pandit Jasraj’s Daughter Durga Celebrate His Love for Coffee on ‘Musical Pooja Day’?
Synopsis
In a touching tribute, Durga Jasraj recalls her father Pandit Jasraj's love for coffee, a drink that helped sustain his remarkable vocal talent. She reveals how the 17th of every month is dedicated to honoring his memory and musical legacy through heartfelt prayers.
Key Takeaways
Durga Jasraj commemorates her father on Musical Pooja Day.
Pandit Jasraj had a unique coffee ritual during performances.
Misri and clove were also part of his concert essentials.
The 17th of every month is dedicated to family prayers through music.
Pandit Jasraj's legacy spans 75 years in classical music.
Mumbai, Feb 17 (NationPress) Commemorating the 17th as her family's “Musical Pooja Day,” Durga Jasraj reminisced about her father, the iconic Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj, and his cherished habit of enjoying coffee during concerts to maintain his voice's remarkable quality.
In a heartfelt social media post, Durga shared a touching tribute, recalling how “Bapuji” would indulge in coffee during his performances to keep his vocal cords hydrated.
Alongside a photo of the late maestro, Durga expressed: “Bapuji loved his coffee!!! He would only sip coffee during his concerts to keep his vocal chords lubricated …”
She also mentioned that misri and clove were among his preferred choices, particularly during lengthy classical performances.
“Misri and clove were also his dependable choices especially during his concerts… Thank you coffee for keeping Golden Voice like Bapuji in such pristine condition …”
With deep affection, Durga described the 17th of each month as their “Musical Pooja Day,” when the family offers prayers through raags and taal.
“Today is the 17th, our Musical Pooja Day... We pray through Raags and Taal... This is the only way we know to let Bapuji know we love him and seek his blessings… Love you Bapuji, aapki hamesha Jai Ho,” she wrote.
Pandit Jasraj's illustrious musical journey spanned 75 years. His legacy encompasses unforgettable performances of classical and semi-classical vocal music, devotional songs, albums, and film soundtracks, along with innovations in various genres, including Haveli Sangeet and the promotion of the Mewati Gharana.
Pandit Jasraj remained in the United States during the Covid-19 lockdown and sadly passed away in 2020 at his home in New Jersey due to cardiac arrest.
He was married to Madhura Shantaram, the daughter of film director V. Shantaram, whom he first met in 1960 in Bombay. They had two children: a son, Shaarang Dev Pandit, a daughter, Durga Jasraj, and four grandchildren.
Point of View
This story highlights the deep emotional connection between family and music, showcasing how traditions are preserved and cherished. Durga Jasraj's remembrance of her father serves as a reminder of the profound impact artists have on their families and the cultural heritage they leave behind.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Musical Pooja Day?
Musical Pooja Day is a tradition observed by Durga Jasraj and her family on the 17th of every month, where they honor the memory of Pandit Jasraj through prayers expressed in raags and taal.
What role did coffee play in Pandit Jasraj's performances?
Pandit Jasraj would sip coffee during his concerts to keep his vocal cords hydrated, ensuring his voice remained in top condition throughout his performances.
How did Pandit Jasraj contribute to Indian classical music?
Pandit Jasraj's illustrious career spanned 75 years and included significant contributions to classical and semi-classical music, devotional songs, and the promotion of Haveli Sangeet and the Mewati Gharana.
Where did Pandit Jasraj pass away?
Pandit Jasraj passed away at his home in New Jersey in 2020 due to cardiac arrest.
Who was Pandit Jasraj's wife?
Pandit Jasraj was married to Madhura Shantaram, the daughter of renowned film director V. Shantaram.
