Hisar: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini joined a state-level function to pay tributes to legendary vocalist and Padma Vibhushan awardee Pandit Jasraj to mark the latter’s 96th birth anniversary at his native village, Pilimandori in Fatehabad district.Addressing the gathering, Saini described Pandit Jasraj as the “Sun of Indian classical music”, whose brilliance illuminated not only India but the entire world. He said the occasion would be remembered as a golden chapter in the history of Indian Classical music.The CM also unveiled a statue of Pandit Jasraj and later paid tributes at the Martyrs’ Memorial. Pandit Jasraj’s daughter and founding trustee of the Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, Durga Jasraj, public works minister Ranbir Gangwa, Rajya Sabha MP Subhash Barala, former minister Devendra Singh Babli, former MP Sunita Duggal, and former MLA Duraram were among those present.The cultural programme featured a performance by Padma Shri-winning bhajan and classical singer Anup Jalota.During the event, Saini announced a series of development projects for the region, including grants of Rs 11 lakh each for the establishment of a new ITI in Bhattu Mandi, construction of a 33 kV power substation in Pilimandori at an estimated cost of Rs 9 crore, reconstruction of the veterinary hospital building at a cost of Rs 40 lakh, and construction of chaupals for Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes in the village. He also directed officials to place the proposal for granting tehsil status to Bhattu Kala sub-tehsil before a committee for feasibility assessment.Additionally, the Chief Minister announced Rs 21 lakh for the installation of a solar system and expansion of the library named after Pandit Jasraj’s father, late Moti Ram. The CM said the state govt undertook several initiatives to preserve Pandit Jasraj’s legacy. In line with announcements made on Jan 28, 2023, two grand entrance gates, a park, and a gymnasium were constructed in his name in Pilimandori. The library named after his father, late Moti Ram, is nearing completion, while beautification work on village ponds is also underway.
