Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to legendary Gujarati music composer, arranger and singer Gaurang Vyas, who passed away in Ahmedabad at the age of 87.
Vyas was one of the prominent names in Gujarati film, folk and light music. The son of renowned Gujarati music composer Avinash Vyas, he carried forward his family’s rich musical legacy through a career spanning several decades.
PM Modi shared a picture with Vyas on X and remembered his significant contribution to Gujarati music. He said Vyas had carved out a distinct place for himself in the field while carrying forward the musical tradition of his father.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Gaurang Vyas, a renowned musician in the Gujarati music world. Carrying forward the rich musical tradition of his father Avinash Vyas, he had carved out a unique place for himself in the field of Gujarati music,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to Vyas’ family, friends and countless admirers, saying his death was a loss for Gujarat.
“His demise leaves Gujarat feeling the loss of a talented creator. His invaluable contribution to the Gujarati music scene will always be remembered. Prayers for the peace of the departed soul, and condolences to the bereaved family members and his vast legion of fans… Om Shanti…!!” he said.
Vyas began his career in the film industry as an assistant to his father in Jesal Toral. He later worked as an independent music director for Lakho Phulani.
Over the course of his career, Vyas composed music for more than 100 films. His notable works included Ketan Mehta’s Bhavni Bhavai, as well as Maniyaro, Nasibni Balihari, Parki Thapan, Liludi Dharati and Maiyarman Mandu Nathi Lagtu.
He collaborated with several celebrated playback singers, including Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Kishore Kumar, Manna Dey, Mahendra Kapoor, Suman Kalyanpur, Bhupinder Singh and Prafull Dave.
Among his memorable compositions were Maniyaro Te Halu Halu Thai Re Viyo and Hu Tu Tu Tu, Jami Ramatni Rutu.
Apart from films, Vyas released several music albums, including Jalaramni Jhumpdi, Bhajan Anmol, Ganga Satina Bhajano, Kahat Kabir, Jalaram Bapanu Halaradu, Prachin Prabhatiyan and Non-Stop Dandiya-Raas.
For his contribution to Gujarati cinema and music, Vyas received around 11 state-level Best Music Direction awards.
In 2022, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel honoured him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also felicitated by the Gujarat State Music Academy and Gujarat Tourism in 2024 for his contribution to the field of music.
Vyas’ contribution to Gujarati cinema, folk and light music leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.
(With ANI inputs)
