Remembering Ghazal Maestro Jagjit Singh And His Timeless Music On His Birth Anniversary

It’s February 8, 2024, the 83rd birth anniversary of Jagjit Singh, an iconic figure for Indian ghazals whose influence continues to be celebrated through his timeless music. Despite his physical absence, Singh’s legacy endures, immortalised by the soulful melodies and evocative lyrics he bestowed upon countless superhits throughout his illustrious career.

Born Jagmohan Singh Dhiman, Singh’s journey to musical prominence was not devoid of challenges. Initially steered towards a conventional career path by his father’s aspirations for him to pursue engineering or civil service, Singh eventually followed his passion for music. Graduating from DAV College, Singh started his musical odyssey under the tutelage of Pandit Chhaganlal Sharma and Ustad Jamal Khan, honing his craft and laying the foundation for his future success.

In 1961, Singh commenced his professional journey by lending his voice to All India Radio, Jalandhar, where he showcased his talent through live concerts held six times a year. Seeking greater opportunities, Singh relocated to Mumbai, where he navigated through the rigours of the industry, undertaking diverse roles such as acting in minor roles, performing at weddings and composing advertising jingles to sustain himself.

Singh’s personal life intertwined with his professional pursuits, particularly in his marriage to fellow ghazal singer Chitra Singh. Their union, marked by mutual love and dedication, endured challenges, including Chitra Singh’s prior marriage. Singh’s respectful approach, seeking permission from Chitra’s estranged husband before proposing to her, underscores his integrity and devotion.

Together, Jagjit and Chitra Singh crafted some of the most cherished albums of their era, including Ecstasies and The Unforgettable. However, tragedy struck their lives with the untimely demise of their son, Vivek Singh, in a heartbreaking accident. Devastated by this loss, Jagjit Singh retreated from music, while Chitra Singh opted for retirement from singing, marking a poignant chapter in their personal and professional journey.

Despite the trials and tribulations encountered along the way, Jagjit Singh’s musical legacy remains indelibly etched in the hearts of fans worldwide, a testament to his unparalleled talent and enduring spirit. As we commemorate his birth anniversary, we celebrate not just his contributions to music but also the resilience and passion that defined his remarkable life.