Paying a glowing tribute to the legendary classical vocalist on his 96th birth anniversary, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini declared that Pandit Jasraj was “not just an artiste, but an institution” in himself. The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing a state-level function at the maestro’s native village, Pili Mandori, in Fatehabad district on Monday.
During the event, CM Saini unveiled a statue of Pandit Jasraj and described him as the “Swar-Surya” (Sun of Music) whose brilliance illuminated not only India but the entire world. “His personality and contribution to Indian classical music are a golden chapter in our history. Through his lifelong devotion, he carried the cultural essence of this village to all seven continents, including Antarctica,” Saini stated. He also conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the event coincided with the fourth anniversary of the Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, which the PM had inaugurated in 2022.
In response to the villagers’ demands and to honour the legend’s memory, the Chief Minister announced a slew of development projects for the region. These include the establishment of a new Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Bhattu Mandi, the construction of a 33 kV power substation in Pili Mandori at a cost of ₹9 crore, and the reconstruction of a veterinary hospital. He also sanctioned ₹21 lakh for installing a solar system in the village and expanding the library named after Pandit Jasraj’s father, Moti Ram.
Pandit Jasraj’s daughter, Durga Jasraj, who was present at the ceremony, expressed her gratitude to the government for the honours. She urged the Chief Minister to establish a grand cultural centre and organise a major music festival in Panchkula to further her father’s legacy—a request the CM assured would be met. The event concluded with a devotional performance by renowned singer Anup Jalota.