शुभास्ते पंथानः संतु

It's been four days now. It was midnight for me. I woke up and checked my phone and saw a new alert that She was no more. It was expected, I was mentally prepared, but as days passed by, I realized how important her existence was in my life. Thanks to my parents, I started listening to her at an age when I didn't even know what music was. She was there with me almost every day, during the morning Abhangvaani or evening aarti or the late nights of exam preparations. Her voice had the power to bring tears of joy and sorrow simultaneously. Her voice can be of someone beloved, your mum, your grandpa, your sister, and your Guru. She possessed no political or social power, but our national flag was flying half-mast, who's who of our society came to Mumbai, and each one of us felt as if one of their own had left this world. Well, she has left this world only physically; she will remain with us till the end of the time for sure. 

As I started learning classical music, I discovered some of the deeper layers of her voice that I had never noticed. There is absolutely no comparison to her voice; it was truly divine! Every music student can learn so much from just one Aalap of hers. Those who compare her with anyone else are the unfortunate ones, in my opinion. 

I can never stop believing in divinity till her voice is around. It's genuinely eternal and out of this world. I love/respect many other singers, musicians but I don't think I can ever feel the same for anyone. 

I hope you have now reached a place where you won't have to worry about anything materialistic. I hope your voice continues to guide us, cheer us and console us. I am blessed and privileged to have been able to listen to you! Om Shanti! 🙏🏻

P.S. शुभास्ते पंथानः संतु means May your journey be auspicious and fruitful