Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Passes Away at 89: Remembering the Legendary Hindustani Classical Singer
Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Passes Away: Padma Vibhushan awardee Pandit Chhannulal Mishra, one of India’s most celebrated Hindustani classical vocalists, passed away on October 2, 2025, at 4 AM in Mirzapur, following a prolonged illness. He had recently turned 89 in August.
His daughter, Namrata Mishra, confirmed to ANI that his last rites will be performed in Varanasi today.
Tributes Pour In
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the legendary singer, calling it his “good fortune” to have always received Pandit Mishra’s affection and blessings. He wrote: “He remained dedicated throughout his life to the enrichment of Indian art and culture. Along with taking classical music to the masses, he also made an invaluable contribution to establishing Indian tradition on the global stage. In the year 2014, he was also my proposer from the Varanasi seat. In this hour of grief, I express my deepest condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti!”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his condolences, mourning the loss of a music legend.
Who Was Pandit Chhannulal Mishra?
Born Mohan Lal Mishra on August 3, 1936, in Hariharpur, Azamgarh, Pandit Mishra later became popularly known by his childhood nickname, Chhannu—a name his mother gave him, as per village tradition, to protect babies from misfortune.
He began his musical training under his father, Pandit Badri Prasad Mishra, and later refined his skills under Ustad Abdul Ghani Khan of the Kirana Gharana and musicologist Thakur Jaidev Singh.
Pandit Mishra moved to Varanasi four decades ago, where he mastered khayal, thumri, dadra, chaiti, and kajri, skillfully blending Punjab, Purab, and Gaya traditions. Known as a “people’s artist,” he made classical music accessible to common audiences while maintaining its depth and purity.
He was particularly renowned for his devotional music, including renditions from the Ramcharitmanas and the songs of Kabir, and was admired for singing the Sunderkaand by heart. His style represented a seamless fusion of tradition and soul, ensuring classical music remained rooted yet relatable to contemporary listeners.
Pandit Chhannulal Mishra leaves behind a monumental legacy, having inspired generations of musicians and music lovers alike. His contribution to Indian classical music and devotion to its cultural heritage will continue to resonate for years to come.
