It's tragic Friday for Indian music industry. One of the foremost exponents of Carnatic music, Uppalapu Srinivas, 45, passed away in the morning in Chennai. Srinivas was reportedly battling liver related ailment and was hospitalised for the same.
The news of the legend's demise sent the entire music industry into a state of mourning. Many took to Twitter to express their deep condolences.
The Prime Minister's office offered condolences on behalf of PM Narendra Modi.
"The Prime Minister expressed grief on the passing away of renowned musician Shri Uppalapu Shrinivas," tweeted the PMO.
Maestro A R Rahman tweeted:
"Emotionally shaken to hear of Carnatic shining star Mandolin Shrinivasji's demise... May God bless him with happiness in the next world..."
Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain wrote:
"Today mother India cries, today a part of Indian music died and we are orphaned, RIP my dear brother Mandolin Srinivas."
Composer Salim Merchant wrote:
"We've lost a wonderful human being and a legend 'mandolin srinivas'. Pt. U.srinivas RIP. Prayers .."
Singer Shreya Ghoshal tweeted her condolences:
"We lost Mandolin Maestro Shri U. Srinivas this morning. One of the greatest musicians of this world. And too young to go away. R.I.P."
Music director Shekhar wrote:
"The musical world has lost a real gem. RIP Mandolin Srinivas."
Uppalapu Srinivas, popularly known as Mandolin Srinivas (Mandolin is the instrument he played) was a child prodigy who rose to fame at the age of six when he started playing. After having collected awards and recognition for his brilliance, the Government of India bestowed him with the coveted Padma Shri in 1998. Prolific down south, Srinivas had also collaborated with Miles Davis for the West Berin Jazz Festival in 1983.
RIP Mandolin Srinivas.