Prominent musicians of the country on hailed the 'Bharat Ratna' honour on Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and described him as the tallest icon of Hindustani classical music. He was honored on November 4th.

Renowned santoor players Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Satish Vyas expressed happiness over Bhimsen Joshi being chosen for the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian award.

"The Bharat Ratna honour on Panditji has come at an opportune time. Actually, he should have been given this highest award long time back," Sharma told PTI.

Calling Pandit Bhimsen the 'Bhishmapitmah' of Hindustani classical music, Vyas said, "the Bharat Ratna honour on Panditji was an honour for the entire music world. He should have got it long ago.

"Many artists become famous but there are few who remain in the hearts of their listeners for such a long time. He is the real heart throb of music lovers. Panditji's contribution to Hindustani classical music is unparalleled."

Eminent Hindustani vocalist and Padma Vibhushan awardee Gangubai Hanagal today congratulated the legendary exponent of Hindustani classical music and said "I heard the sweetest news and am overjoyed. We both are students of the same teacher Sawai Gandharva of Kirana gharana and learnt Hindustani music together."

Vocalist Kishori Amonkar said the Bharat Ratna honour for Panditji was a matter of great pride to the music fraternity.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa also acclaimed the honour on Hindustani music virtuoso, saying, "Joshi has rendered great service in the field of Hindustani music and has made Karnataka proud by being the second Kannadiga to win the coveted civilian award after Sir M Vishweshwaraiah."