'Jagjit Singh didn't ask for money for his Sarfarosh song'

Noted ghazal singer Jagjit Singh, who passed away this morning, had many fans who swore by his talent. One of his many admirers is filmmaker John Mathew Mathan.

He was fortunate to have Singh sing in both his films, Sarfarosh and Shikhar. Mathan pays a tribute to the late singer.

Jagjit Singh was a great inspiration. I have high regard for him and the voice that he possessed.

My early memories of Jagjit Singh are from my college days, when I would listen to his ghazals. My all-time favourite is Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho.

I would often see him record his songs at Western Outdoor Studio near Horniman Circle, which no longer exists. I would go there for my shoots and bump into him at Mahalaxmi race course, where he would be taking an evening walk. But I never got a chance to interact with him until we worked together on Sarfarsoh.

Lyricist Nida Fazli had written the beautiful song Hoshwalaon Ko Khabar Kya. When I approached Jagjit Singh, he immediately agreed to do it. He was so humble, he didn't ask for remuneration. He asked me to pay whatever I deemed fit.

I was fortunate enough to work with him again in my second film Shikhar where he sang a devotional song. His devotional songs have always been very soothing.

A thorough gentleman, he will surely be missed.