NEW DELHI : A minor planet, between Mars and Jupiter, has been named after 'Pandit Jasraj', the doyen of Indian classical vocal music. International Astronomical Union (IAU) has named minor planet 2006 VP32 (number -300128) , discovered on November 11, 2006 , as 'Panditjasraj'. With this honour, Padma Vibhushan recipient Pandit Jasraj has become the first Indian musician to join the galaxy of immortal composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Tenor Luciano Pavarotti. "Blessed... in this honour one can experience only god's grace," Pandit Jasraj said from the US. As minor planet discoveries are confirmed, they are given a permanent number by IAU's Minor Planet Centre.

Source: Mint September 29, 2019 13:52 UTC