“Pandit C.R. Vyas was a singer’s singer,” shared Padma Shri awardee M. Venkatesh Kumar. “He taught us how to approach a raga with depth, purity, and emotion, setting a standard of integrity both in music and in life.”
These heartfelt words were expressed during the release of Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan, a biographical work celebrating the centenary of Padma Bhushan Pandit C.R. Vyas. The event, held on November 9 at Swatantryaveer Savarkar Hall, Dadar, was organized by GuniJan Research Art Culture and Education Foundation (Grace) and Pancham Nishad.
Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar was the chief guest at the event, joined by distinguished personalities including Ramdas Bhatkal (Popular Prakashan), Shashi Vyas and Satish Vyas (sons of Pandit Vyas), authors Shruti Pandit and Shashi Vyas, Achyut Palav, Shraddha Palav, Vinay Gawande, Harshal Bhatkal, composer Kaushal Inamdar, and actress Mukta Barve. Following the release, excerpts from the book were brought to life by Mukta Barve and Kaushal Inamdar, whose readings evoked the essence of Pandit Vyas’s life, sparking readers’ interest.
A Moving Musical Tribute by Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar
The book launch was complemented by an enchanting performance by Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar, who expressed his respect for Pandit Vyas through his music. Accompanied by Keshav Joshi and Ajay Jogalekar, Kumar’s rendition captivated the audience, infusing the event with a spirit of devotion and reverence. The evening’s proceedings were eloquently conducted by Asmita Mohite.
About Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan
Written by Shruti Pandit and Shashi Vyas, Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan was conceptualized by Shashi Vyas, founder of Grace Foundation and son of Pandit C.R. Vyas, and published by Popular Prakashan. This biography unfolds the journey of Pandit Vyas, delving into his process of raga creation, his iconic compositions, and his lasting influence on Indian classical music. In her comments, Shruti Pandit shared, “The title ‘Chintamani’ reflects Panditji’s contemplative nature and dedication to simplicity.”
Publisher Ramdas Bhatkal expressed his pride in bringing the book to readers, saying, “Pandit Vyas transcended the traditional gharana style, embracing a broader vision of classical music, and we are honored to publish this work.”
Emotional Reflections from the Family
“This is an emotional moment for us,” shared Satish Vyas, Pandit Vyas’s son. “For years, my brother Shashi dreamed of creating this book, and today, on our father’s birth centenary, it has finally become a reality.”
Shashi Vyas also reflected, “We worked on this biography for seven years. My father’s teachings on living simply and inspiring others were his greatest legacy.”
Featuring a foreword by Monika Gajendragadkar and a cover designed by Achyut Palav, Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan offers readers a window into the life of Pandit C.R. Vyas. This work, dedicated to the music community, invites musicians, scholars, and fans to experience the depth of Pandit Vyas’s legacy.
