Girija Devi

Girija Devi was an iconic Indian classical vocalist of the Seniya and Banaras Gharana. She began her training under the guidance of vocalist and sarangi artist, Sarju Prasad Misra, in khayal and tappa before continuing her training under Chand Misra in a variety of disciplines. A career spanning over six decades, Devi has been a Guru at the ITC Sangeet Research Academy since its inception and is a recipient of many prestigious awards including the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, Padma Bhushan in 1989, Padma Shri in 1972, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1977 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, amongst numerous others. She passed away in October 2017, leaving behind many disciples who became high-ranking artists.