MUMBAI: Renowned Marathi Lavani singer Sulochana Chavan died here on Saturday due to age-related ailments, her family said. Chavan, 92, was a Padma Shri recipient.
She breathed her last at her south Mumbai residence, said her son and Dholki player Vijay Chavan.
Known as 'Lavani Samradnyi' (Queen of Lavani), Sulochana Chavan was one of the most well-known singers in this traditional Maharashtrian musical genre closely associated with the folk theatre form 'Tamasha'.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief at her death and said she will be remembered for her monumental role in promoting the culture of the state of Maharashtra.
Modi tweeted, "She was also passionate about music and theatre. Pained by her demise. Condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as well as Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari condoled her death.
"Smt Sulochana-tai Chavan was the undisputed Queen of Lavani. She infused life in the poetry and immortalized many Lavanis on the strength of her unique voice and diction. Her beautiful voice will live on for many more years. I offer my homage to the great singer and convey my condolences to Shri Vijay Chavan and other members of the bereaved family," he said in a message.
Chief Minister Shinde in his condolence message said Chavan's death has left a void in the field of Lavani, folk art and music.
Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ajit Pawar also paid tributes to the late singer. pti
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