“Pandit C.R. Vyas was truly a singer’s singer,” said Padma Shri awardee M. Venkatesh Kumar. “He taught us how to approach a raga with unparalleled depth, purity, and emotion, embodying integrity both in music and life.”
These heartfelt words marked the release of Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan, a biography celebrating the centenary of Padma Bhushan Pandit C.R. Vyas. The event, held on November 9 at Swatantryaveer Savarkar Hall, Dadar, was organized by the GuniJan Research Art Culture and Education Foundation (Grace) and Pancham Nishad.
Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar, the event’s chief guest, was joined by notable figures such as Ramdas Bhatkal of Popular Prakashan, Shashi Vyas and Satish Vyas (Pandit Vyas’s sons), authors Shruti Pandit and Shashi Vyas, Achyut Palav, Shraddha Palav, Vinay Gawande, Harshal Bhatkal, composer Kaushal Inamdar, and actress Mukta Barve. Mukta Barve and Kaushal Inamdar’s readings from the book brought Pandit Vyas’s story to life, engaging the audience and sparking curiosity.
A Musical Tribute by Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar
The launch was enhanced by a mesmerizing musical performance by Padma Shri M. Venkatesh Kumar, who honored Pandit Vyas through his music. Supported by Keshav Joshi and Ajay Jogalekar, Kumar’s soulful rendition enthralled the audience, adding to the evening’s deep sense of reverence. Asmita Mohite hosted the proceedings with poise.
About Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan
Co-authored by Shruti Pandit and Shashi Vyas, Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan was conceived by Shashi Vyas, founder of Grace Foundation and son of Pandit C.R. Vyas, and published by Popular Prakashan. The book traces Pandit Vyas’s remarkable journey, his innovative approach to raga creation, and his influential compositions that reshaped Indian classical music. “The title ‘Chintamani’ reflects Panditji’s contemplative spirit and dedication to simplicity,” said co-author Shruti Pandit.
Publisher Ramdas Bhatkal shared his pride in publishing the book, noting, “Pandit Vyas expanded the boundaries of traditional gharana music, envisioning a more inclusive classical music landscape.”
Reflections from Family
“This is an emotional milestone for our family,” said Satish Vyas, son of Pandit Vyas. “My brother Shashi’s long-standing dream has come to fruition on our father’s birth centenary.”
Shashi Vyas added, “Creating this biography was a seven-year journey. My father’s teachings about simplicity and inspiring others are his most profound legacy.”
With a foreword by Monika Gajendragadkar and a cover by Achyut Palav, Chintamani – Ek Chirantan Chintan is an homage to Pandit C.R. Vyas’s life, inviting readers—musicians, scholars, and fans alike—to immerse themselves in his enduring legacy.
