Book on Bhimsen Joshi released

Such an artist is born only once in a few centuries, says Ganapati Bhat Hasanagi

“An artist of the stature of Bhimsen Joshi is born only once in a few centuries,’’ Pandit Ganapati Bhat Hasanagi said in Belagavi on Sunday.

“His craft was unmatched. His dedication to art and his sincerity in his performance was unparalleled. India is fortunate that it produced a musician of global fame,’’ he said.

He was speaking after releasing Bharat Ratna Bheemanna, a Kannada book on the singer , written by Shirish Joshi.

“I have attended most of Bhimsen Joshi’s concerts, travelled with him and performed at events organised by him. He embodied his emotions into his art and ensured that he led the listeners on a pleasant journey with him,” Mr. Bhat said.

Mr Bhat, who also wrote the preface to the book, said that reading the book gives a feeling that is similar to the one felt after a concert. “It lingers on in your mind This book leaves you thinking about it for long after you have put it down,’’ he said.

Ramakrishna Marathe, writer, read out excerpts from the book. He said that writer Shirish Joshi had brought to life anecdotes about all those who were closely associated with Bhimsen Joshi.