A minor planet, traversing the cosmos between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, has been named after classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj. Discovered on Nov. 11, 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) named minor planet 2006 VP32 (number -300128), as ‘Panditjasraj’.
With the honour, the Padma Vibhushan recipient belonging to the Mewati gharana, became the first Indian musician to join the galaxy of immortal composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Tenor Luciano Pavarotti, to receive the honour. “Blessed… in this honour one can experience only god’s grace,” said the 89-year-old maestro from the US.
“It was made official by IAU on September 23, followed by a citation,” his daughter Durga Jasraj told PTI. The citation reads,”Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj is an exponent of Indian classical vocal music. A life dedicated to music, Jasraj is recipient of many awards, honours and titles. His distinctive voice traverses remarkable four-and-a-half octave.”
As minor planet discoveries are confirmed, they are given a permanent number by IAU’s Minor Planet Centre. The Panditjasraj minor planet can be seen on their official website with the number 300128, his date of birth in reverse order.