about
about
about bhai beant singh ji
Bhai Beant Singh Bijli, a musical maestro, was born on February 2nd, 1930, in the vibrant Jalandhar District of Punjab. Growing up in the charming town of Phillaur, his journey with Kirtan commenced at the tender age of 5, blossoming into early recognition by the age of 12. A prodigy, he clinched victory at the Basant Raag Sammelan in Patiala at just 16.
Immersing himself in the melodies of both professional and amateur mentors, Bhai Beant Singh Ji valued artistic wisdom over societal status or religious affiliations. Among his vocal guides were the esteemed Prof. Darshan Singh Komal of Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana’s Gurbaksh Singh. Beyond traditional lessons, he embraced diverse learning experiences, apprenticing with individuals passionate about sharing their knowledge.
Earned the moniker ‘Bijli’ (meaning Lightning) for his ability to modulate his voice to soaring heights. His prowess once prompted Prof. Darshan Singh Komal to humorously caution, “Please lower your pitch, lest your notes fail to bring down the stars.” In homage to a departed mentor, he spontaneously crafted the Komalkauns Raag, a unique variation of Raag Malkauns.Fw
about bhai beant singh ji
Bhai Beant Singh Bijli, a musical maestro, was born on February 2nd, 1930, in the vibrant Jalandhar District of Punjab. Growing up in the charming town of Phillaur, his journey with Kirtan commenced at the tender age of 5, blossoming into early recognition by the age of 12. A prodigy, he clinched victory at the Basant Raag Sammelan in Patiala at just 16.
Immersing himself in the melodies of both professional and amateur mentors, Bhai Beant Singh Ji valued artistic wisdom over societal status or religious affiliations. Among his vocal guides were the esteemed Prof. Darshan Singh Komal of Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana’s Gurbaksh Singh. Beyond traditional lessons, he embraced diverse learning experiences, apprenticing with individuals passionate about sharing their knowledge.
Earned the moniker ‘Bijli’ (meaning Lightning) for his ability to modulate his voice to soaring heights. His prowess once prompted Prof. Darshan Singh Komal to humorously caution, “Please lower your pitch, lest your notes fail to bring down the stars.” In homage to a departed mentor, he spontaneously crafted the Komalkauns Raag, a unique variation of Raag Malkauns.
Among his contemporaries were close childhood friend Bhai Avtar Singh, Gurcharan Singh, and Bhai Dharam Singh Zakhmi, along with several renowned Kirtanias. Serving as the ‘Head Sevadar’ of the historic Muktsar Gurdwara, Bhai Sahib’s pre-partition tabla accompanist, Iqbal, mentored future maestros like Tariq Khan. His musical journey included playing the ‘dilruba’ alongside his brother before the harmonium era.
Bhai Sahib later ventured to Kenya, serving as the ‘Head Granthi’ from 1968 to 1982, garnering accolades and gracing local TV screens. Following a successful stint, he transitioned to semi-retirement, dividing his time between Phillaur, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In Gaithersburg, Maryland, from 2001 to 2007, Bhai Sahib, urged by the Sikh community, resurfaced with his son, Dr. Gur Jai Pal Singh, and grandson, Bavan Pal Singh, captivating audiences with soul-stirring Raag-based Shabad Kirtan.
Bhai Beant Singh Bijli, the maestro of divine melodies, peacefully bid adieu on August 20th, 2019, leaving behind a legacy of musical brilliance and spiritual resonance.
