Jagjit Singh Biography: The Ghazal Maestro Who Touched Millions
Early Life and Background
Jagjit Singh, the legendary ghazal singer and composer, was born on February 8, 1941, in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India. His birth name was Jagmohan Singh Dhiman.
He was born into a Sikh family, where his father, Amar Singh Dhiman, worked as a government employee, and his mother, Bachan Kaur, was a homemaker. From an early age, Jagjit showed an inclination towards music, often singing in school and community gatherings. His father recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue formal training in music.
Jagjit Singh received his initial training in classical music under Pandit Chaganlal Sharma and later honed his skills under Ustad Jamal Khan, specializing in Khayal, Thumri, and Dhrupad. He completed his schooling in Sri Ganganagar and later pursued higher education at DAV College, Jalandhar, where he actively participated in music competitions. He then went on to earn a post-graduate degree in history from Kurukshetra University.
Musical Journey and Rise to Fame
Jagjit Singh moved to Mumbai in the 1960s with dreams of making a name in the music industry. Initially, he struggled to establish himself, but his unique style of ghazal singing, which simplified traditional Urdu poetry and incorporated modern instruments, made his music more accessible to the masses.
His breakthrough came in the 1970s with the album “The Unforgettables” (1976), which he created with his wife, Chitra Singh. Their soulful compositions brought ghazals to mainstream audiences and redefined the genre. Over the years, Jagjit Singh became known as the “Ghazal King.”
Major Works and Albums
Below is a table listing some of Jagjit Singh’s most famous ghazals and albums:
| Ghazals | Albums |
|---|---|
| “Hothon Se Chhu Lo Tum” | The Unforgettables (1976) |
| “Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho” | Saath Saath (1982) |
| “Chitthi Na Koi Sandesh” | Marasim (1999) |
| “Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya” | Sarfarosh (1999) |
| “Yeh Daulat Bhi Le Lo” | Someone Somewhere (1990) |
| “Koi Fariyaad” | Tum Bin (2001) |
| “Baat Niklegi Toh Phir” | Live at Royal Albert Hall |
Personal Life and Tragic Loss
Jagjit Singh married Chitra Singh, who was also an accomplished ghazal singer. The couple formed an iconic musical duo and gained immense popularity for their melodious duets. Their love for music bound them together, and they produced some of the most memorable ghazal albums in Indian history.
However, their personal life was marked by tragedy. In 1990, their only son, Vivek Singh, passed away in a car accident at the age of 20. The devastating loss left the couple heartbroken, and Chitra Singh withdrew from public performances. The grief profoundly influenced Jagjit Singh’s music, making his later compositions even more soul-stirring and melancholic.
Jagjit Singh also had a stepdaughter, Monica Singh, from Chitra’s previous marriage. Unfortunately, tragedy struck again when Monica died by suicide in 2009, adding to the family’s sorrows.
Despite these personal losses, Jagjit Singh remained dedicated to his art and continued to perform and compose music, using his pain to bring out deeper emotions in his songs.
Awards and Honors
Recognized for his immense contribution to music, Jagjit Singh received several prestigious awards, including:
- Padma Bhushan (2003) – One of India’s highest civilian honors
- Lata Mangeshkar Samman
- Sahitya Academy Award (posthumously in 2014) for his contributions to Urdu poetry and music
Legacy and Passing
Jagjit Singh continued to perform and mesmerize audiences until his last days. On October 10, 2011, he passed away due to a brain hemorrhage, leaving behind a rich legacy of timeless music.
His ghazals continue to be loved by generations, making him an immortal figure in Indian music. His ability to express deep emotions through music has ensured that his voice and songs will live on forever.
FAQs About Jagjit Singh
1. What made Jagjit Singh’s ghazals unique?
Jagjit Singh’s ghazals were unique because he simplified Urdu poetry, making it accessible to a wider audience. He also incorporated modern musical instruments, which gave his ghazals a fresh appeal.
2. What was Jagjit Singh’s most famous ghazal?
Some of his most famous ghazals include “Hothon Se Chhu Lo Tum,” “Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho,” and “Koi Fariyaad.”
3. Did Jagjit Singh compose music for Bollywood?
Yes, he composed music for several Bollywood films like “Arth” (1982), “Saath Saath” (1982), “Sarfarosh” (1999), and “Tum Bin” (2001).
4. Did Jagjit Singh receive any national awards?
Yes, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2003 for his contribution to Indian music.
5. What was his last recorded song?
One of his last recorded songs was “Tera Chehra Kitna Suhana Lagta Hai.”
Jagjit Singh’s contribution to ghazals and Indian music is unparalleled. His voice still resonates with fans worldwide, bringing comfort and nostalgia to countless listeners. His legacy remains alive through his timeless music.
