Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki

Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki had a revolutionary influence of the evolution of modern Indian classical, semi-classical and devotional music. In addition to fusing traditional ragas with new compositions, Abhisheki introduced the western operatic style to the Marathi theater. His musical productions, including "Matsyangandha," "Katyar Kaljat Ghusli," "Yayati Ana Deuyani" and "Lekure Udana Jahali," inspired a revival of natya-sangeet in the late-1960s. The son of the head priest of the Mangeshi temple of Goa, Abhisheki was a disciple of Pandit Jagannath Purohit. Launching his career as a vocalist, Abhisheki was influenced by both the traditions of Indian classical music and modern innovations. Abhisheki's disciples included Asha Khadilkar, Ajit Katkade and his son, Shaunaq Abhisheki. Suffering from diabetes and kidney problems in his later years, Abhisheki died in 1998.