Madhura Jasraj, the wife of legendary classical singer Pandit Jasraj, passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian classical music and cinema. While Pandit Jasraj is remembered as a towering figure in the world of classical music, Madhura ji’s contribution to Indian film music, particularly her role in bringing the instrument Santoor to cinema, is an often-overlooked chapter in musical history. This is a story that connects Madhura ji, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, and Indian cinema in a significant way.
The Beginning: Shivkumar Sharma and Santoor’s Journey
It was in the 1950s, during a prestigious music festival in Mumbai, that a young Shivkumar Sharma caught the attention of the audience. Then only 17 or 18 years old, he performed both a solo Tabla recital and played the Santoor, a relatively unknown instrument at that time. His performance left a lasting impression on many, including Madhura ji, who was in the audience.
The sound of the Santoor resonated with her deeply, and she saw potential in introducing it to film music, which had not yet embraced the instrument. At the time, Santoor was rarely used in films, and her keen understanding of music led her to recognize its unique charm. Without wasting time, she spoke to her father, the renowned filmmaker V. Shantaram, about both the instrument and Shivkumar Sharma. This would set the stage for a historic moment in Indian cinema.
A Telegram That Changed Everything
After hearing from his daughter, V. Shantaram, who was then working on his film Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje, decided to meet with Shivkumar Sharma. However, the young musician, busy with his exams, initially declined the invitation. Pandit Shivkumar Sharma later considered this decision foolish, but fate had other plans. After completing his exams, he received a telegram from Rajkamal Studios, asking him to come to Bombay.
The film Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje was a masterpiece that featured several great classical artists. Among them were Gopikrishna, a celebrated Kathak dancer, Ustad Amir Khan, a classical singer, and Pandit Samta Prasad, a tabla maestro. Amidst such luminaries, Shivkumar Sharma made his mark by playing the Santoor, making it the first time this instrument was used in Indian film music. And it was Madhura ji’s foresight that helped bring this magical sound to the big screen.
Marriage to Pandit Jasraj: A Union of Music and Cinema
Madhura ji’s love for music was not only evident in her efforts to introduce the Santoor but also in her personal life. In the 1960s, she married Pandit Jasraj, one of India’s most respected classical vocalists. Their bond was rooted in their mutual admiration for music. Madhura ji had been attending Pandit Jasraj’s concerts, and their relationship blossomed through these interactions.
Pandit Jasraj, in a lighter moment during an interview, once remarked, “I’m married to the daughter of a great filmmaker like V. Shantaram, so why wouldn’t I have an interest in film music?” Their marriage brought together the world of Indian classical music and cinema in a way that enriched both art forms.
A Lasting Legacy in the World of Music
Madhura Jasraj’s contribution to music didn’t stop with her marriage to Pandit Jasraj. Her understanding and love for music were passed down to their children, Sarang Dev and Durga Jasraj, both of whom are also associated with music. Sarang Dev is a composer, and Durga Jasraj has made a name for herself as a classical music promoter and television personality.
Madhura ji’s vision of incorporating the Santoor into film music, combined with her lifelong dedication to the arts, leaves a lasting impact on Indian music. Her support and encouragement to great musicians like Pandit Shivkumar Sharma paved the way for the Santoor to gain recognition and appreciation across generations.
Remembering Madhura Jasraj’s Contribution to Indian Culture
Pandit Jasraj passed away four years ago, and now with the passing of Madhura Jasraj, an important chapter in Indian classical music has come to a close. However, much like Pandit Jasraj’s music continues to inspire and resonate, Madhura ji’s role in shaping the musical landscape will also remain significant. Her deep understanding of music, especially her pivotal contribution to introducing the Santoor to film audiences, has ensured her place in the annals of Indian music history.
