Renowned Gujarati musician and veteran composer Gaurang Vyas passed away in Ahmedabad at the age of 88. He was the son of celebrated composer and Padma Shri awardee Avinash Vyas and carved out a distinct identity in Gujarati music through his experimental and individualistic style.
Vyas married Nayanaben in Ahmedabad in 1967. His final journey will begin from his residence at Morena Apartment near Hirabaug Crossing in Ambawadi at 11:30 am.
From Engineering to Music
Vyas was introduced to music at a very young age. At just five, he could play ‘Vaishnav Jan’ on the harmonium. However, music was not his initial career choice. He completed a diploma in mechanical engineering and worked with a reputed engineering company in Mumbai before eventually leaving the profession to pursue his passion for music.
He entered Gujarati cinema as an assistant to his father, Avinash Vyas, and worked on Jesal Toral. He later established himself as an independent music director with Lakho Phulani, which marked the Gujarati film debut of actress Rita Bhaduri. The film also featured Kishore Kumar’s first Gujarati song, while Prafull Dave made his singing debut with the movie.
Composed Music for Over 100 Films
During his illustrious career, Gaurang Vyas composed music for more than 100 films. His work included Ketan Mehta’s internationally acclaimed Bhavni Bhavai, along with films such as Maniyaro, Nasibni Balihari, Parki Thapan, Liludi Dharati and Maiyarman Mandu Nathi Lagtu.
One of his major contributions to Gujarati cinema was bringing some of India’s leading playback singers into the industry. His composition ‘Dikri To Parki Thapan’, sung by Lata Mangeshkar, became an enduring favourite and continues to be played at farewell ceremonies.
Vyas also worked with celebrated singers including Asha Bhosle, Kishore Kumar, Manna Dey, Mahendra Kapoor, Suman Kalyanpur, Bhupinder Singh and Prafull Dave.
Among his memorable compositions were ‘Maniyaro Te Halu Halu Thai Re Viyo’ and ‘Hu Tu Tu Tu, Jami Ramatni Rutu’.
Contribution Beyond Gujarati Cinema
Vyas’ contribution extended beyond films. According to the Gujarati Vishwakosh, he composed more than 500 pieces of sugam sangeet.
He also composed popular garbas and devotional songs, including ‘Lakh Lakh Divda’, ‘Ghor Andhari Re Rataladima’, ‘Tu Rangai Jaane Rangma’, ‘Hu To Gai Ti Mele’, ‘Madi Tara Mandirya Ghantarav’, ‘Piyu Maro Lilo Lajamani No Chhod’ and ‘Ame Maniyara Gokul Gam Na’.
His other popular compositions include ‘Amdavad No Rickshawwalo’, ‘Garam Masaledar Khatimithi Vangi’, ‘Sanvariyo’ and ‘Patan Shaher Ni Nar Padamani’.
PM Modi Pays Tribute
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Gaurang Vyas, expressing sadness over his death and recalling his contribution to Gujarati music.
Modi said Vyas had carried forward the rich musical tradition of his father, Avinash Vyas, while creating a unique identity of his own. He added that Vyas’ invaluable contribution to Gujarati music would always be remembered and offered condolences to his family and fans.