Renowned musician and founder of ‘Sangeeta Ksheerasagaram’, Vidwan Sri Ooruganti Anand Mohan, passed away on Monday at the age of 90. He had been battling health issues related to aging for some time before taking his last breath. Anand Mohan is survived by six children, leaving behind a legacy that will continue through his family and contributions to classical music.
From 1956 to 1977, Anand Mohan served as a prominent vocalist at All India Radio’s Hyderabad center, where he showcased his talent in light classical music. His passion for music was not just a career; it was his very breath. After a successful stint in music, he also worked at the Controller & Auditor General’s office in Delhi, where he contributed to the administrative field before retiring voluntarily to dedicate his time entirely to music.
In 2002, in memory of his guru Uppalapati Ankiayya, Anand Mohan founded the ‘Sangeeta Ksheerasagaram’ organization. This initiative has been instrumental in promoting classical music, having organized a remarkable 699 concerts in collaboration with Sapthaparnis. His commitment to music is particularly noteworthy, as he managed these concerts without seeking financial assistance from others, relying solely on his pension funds to cover expenses. This selfless dedication exemplifies his passion and love for the art form.
Throughout his illustrious career, Anand Mohan received numerous accolades for his contributions to classical music. In 2012, he was honored as an Asthana Vidwan by the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, recognizing his exceptional work in the field. The following year, he was awarded the Jnana Saraswati Peeth Award in Chennai, further solidifying his status as a luminary in Indian classical music. During the period of 1966-67, he also served as the founding General Secretary of the Sri Tyagaraja Gana Sabha, a role that showcased his leadership and dedication to nurturing the musical community.
Anand Mohan was known for consistently encouraging young artists, taking an active role in promoting the next generation of musicians. His passing has elicited an outpouring of grief from various musicians and artists, who have expressed their condolences and shared their memories of his influence and mentorship. His contributions to the arts will be remembered and cherished, ensuring that his spirit continues to inspire future generations of musicians.
As the music community mourns the loss of a stalwart figure, Anand Mohan’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the many lives he touched and the richness he brought to the world of classical music.
