Humane Sagar’s death must be investigated, truth must come out: Late singer’s Guru makes emotional appeal

Renowned music guru Shubhranshu Mishra, the mentor who trained late playback singer Humane Sagar for eight years, has expressed deep grief and concern over his disciple’s sudden death. Speaking from Bolangir, the guru revealed how he shaped Sagar’s musical foundation and why he believes the singer should not have been forced to perform on programmes despite his ill-health. 

He has now called for a proper investigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer’s demise.

A Guru Who Shaped a Voice

Under his guidance, Sagar trained rigorously, developing the voice that would later touch millions across Odisha. Shubhranshu Mishra recalled the early years of Humane Sagar’s musical journey, describing him as a dedicated and exceptionally talented student.

“For eight years, I taught him music. He kept progressing… he kept rising,” Mishra said, his voice trembling with emotion.

Also Read: ‘Don’t want to live anymore, I want to die’: Humane Sagar’s WhatsApp message to music director

Deep Pain Over an Irreplaceable Loss

The guru said he was shattered upon learning of Sagar’s passing at such a young age.

“He was unwell. In that condition, he should not have been made to perform on stage,” Mishra remarked, hinting at negligence in how the singer’s physical condition was handled.

I was entrusted with the responsibility of being Guruji under the cultural forum in Titilagarh. Humane was extremely obedient, and I was always impressed by his determination and his remarkable tolerance level when it came to mastering anything that came his way. For the past 8 years, we worked together on various aspects of Hindustani Shastriya Sangeet, from khatka and gamak to taan and other technical nuances. We tried to impart every bit of classical technique to him, and he embraced it wholeheartedly. He would practise the elements of classical music and present them before me with utmost sincerity. After his demise, I can say with certainty that a singer of his calibre will be very difficult to find again in Odisha,” said renowned music guru Shubhranshu Mishra.

He further stated that several aspects of the death appeared concerning and deserved scrutiny.

"The circumstances of his death must be investigated," he insisted.

Calls for Clarity and Justice

Mishra’s grief reflects the collective mourning of Odisha’s music community, still struggling to accept the loss of a rising star whose voice defined an era of modern Odia music.

As tributes pour in from across the state, the mentor’s emotional appeal adds new urgency to calls for a thorough inquiry. For Shubhranshu Mishra, seeking truth is part of honouring his disciple, ensuring that Humane Sagar’s legacy is preserved with dignity and that the questions surrounding his final days are not left unanswered.