Padma Shri recipient Solachana Chavan, who mesmerized the audience with her exceptional Lavani songs passed way at the age of 92. She was one of the most well-known vocalists that pioneered the traditional Maharashtrian musical style which is closesly related to the folk theatre form Tamasha. Known as the ‘Lavani Samradnyi’ (Queen of Lavani), breathed her last at her South Mumbai residence on Saturday, informed her son and dholki player, Vijay Chavan. According to a report by PTI, she passed away due to age-related diseases.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari expressed their grief over her passing. PM Modi through his tweet, spoke about her significant contribution towards advancing Maharatshra’s culture. He wrote, “The coming generations will remember Sulochana Tai Chavan for her monumental role in promoting the culture of Maharashtra, especially Lavani. She was also passionate about music and theatre. Pained by her demise. Condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
The coming generations will remember Sulochana Tai Chavan for her monumental role in promoting the culture of Maharashtra, especially Lavani. She was also passionate about music and theatre. Pained by her demise. Condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 10, 2022
In a statement, the Governor of Maharashtra Koshyari said, “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.”
CM Shinde too expressed how the death of the Lavani Queen has left a void in the field of folk art and music.
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