Renowned Classical Vocalist Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Passes Away at 89.

On October 2, 2025, Padma Vibhushan awardee and eminent classical vocalist Pandit Chhannulal Mishra passed away at the age of 89 in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh (UP). Born on August 3, 1936, in Hariharpur, Azamgarh, UP, he was celebrated for his contributions to Hindustani classical music and folk traditions.

      - Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was initially trained by his father, Badri Prasad Mishra, and later received guidance from renowned musicians Shambhu Bhattacharya and Ustad Ghani Khan of the Kirana Gharana. His training rooted him deeply in the Banaras Gharana tradition.

      - He represented the Banaras Gharana, known for infusing folk elements and emotional depth into classical ragas and semi-classical genres. He specialized in Purab Ang Gayaki, a classical style originating in UP and Bihar.

Main Point :-   (i) Mishra excelled in pure classical forms like Khyal and semi-classical genres including Thumri, Dadra, Kajri, Hori, and Chaiti. He was affectionately known as the “Voice of Banaras” for his soulful renditions.

      (ii) He mentored numerous disciples, ensuring the continuity of his Purab Ang Gayaki tradition. His influence significantly shaped the next generation of classical vocalists within the Banaras Gharana.

(iii) He received multiple honors, including the Naushad Award (1995), Bihar Sangeet Shiromani Award (1999), UP Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2000), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2010), Padma Bhushan (2010), and Padma Vibhushan (2020) for his outstanding contributions to Indian music.