Classical Music Maestro Prabhakar Karekar No More

Renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Prabhakar Karekar passed away at the age of 80 in Mumbai on Wednesday night after a brief illness. Born in Goa, Karekar was widely respected for his contributions to Hindustani classical music and was known for devotional renditions like Bolava Vithal Pahava Vithal and Vakratund Mahakay. He trained under legendary gurus and received several prestigious awards, including the Tansen Samman, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, and Gomant Vibhushan Award. His death was condoled by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who praised his role in preserving and expanding classical music in Goa. Karekar’s legacy continues through his disciples and admirers.

Key Highlights

• Name: Pandit Prabhakar Karekar
• Age: 80
• Place of Birth: Goa
• Place of Death: Mumbai, at his residence in Shivaji Park

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Famous Renditions

• Bolava Vithal Pahava Vithal
• Vakratund Mahakay

Musical Training

• Gurus: Pandit Suresh Haldankar, Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, Pandit C.R. Vyas

Achievements & Contributions

• Graded artist on All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan
• Played a key role in promoting and preserving Hindustani classical music in Goa
• Collaborated in fusion music with Ornette Coleman and Sultan Khan

Major Awards

• Tansen Samman
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
• Gomant Vibhushan Award

Legacy & Tributes

• Goa CM Pramod Sawant praised Karekar’s global musical impact.
• His disciples and admirers will carry forward his musical legacy.
• Survived by three sons.