On Saturday, the world of Indian classical music mourned the loss of the legendary vocalist, Padma Vibhushan awardee Prabha Atre, who passed away at the age of 92 due to a heart attack. The news of her sudden demise has left a profound void in the music fraternity. The veteran singer was scheduled to participate in a program in Mumbai on the same day, but tragically, her health took a turn for the worse, and she succumbed to a heart attack before reaching the hospital.
Indian Music Industry will be indebted to her – Devendra Fadnavis on Prabha Atre’s Demise
Expressing his deep sorrow, former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “Her leaving the world is very painful, Indian music will always be indebted to her, I pay my heartfelt tribute to her, and may God give strength to her family to bear this loss.” Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also lamented her passing, stating, “Prabha ji’s demise marked the end of a glorious era of classical music. Her demise is a big loss to the country’s music sector and art sector, he pays tribute to her.”
In honor of her immeasurable contributions to the world of music, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra has directed the administration to ensure that the last rites of the esteemed vocalist are performed with full state honors. As her relatives are currently abroad, her final rites are scheduled to take place in Pune upon their return to the country.
Prabha Atre, born on September 13, 1932, in Pune, was a highly acclaimed artist who received numerous accolades throughout her illustrious career. She was honored with the Padma Shri in 1990, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2022, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field of classical music. Her recent accolades included the Atal Sanskriti Award, which she received on December 25, 2023, from the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis.
The passing of Prabha Atre has left an indelible mark on the world of Indian classical music, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music enthusiasts.