Tributes pour in for musician Rajive Mohan - IOL
South African musician and music producer Rajive Mohan died this morning at his home.
His brother Viren Mohan said Mohan collapsed and was rushed to hospital, where he was declared deceased.
He said Mohan would have celebrated his 58th birthday this Friday.
Mohan of Durban was the band leader of Dilkash, a popular show band known for their Bollywood style live entertainment.
Regarded as South Africa’s AR Rahman he was a singer, composer and lyricist known for his creativity and passion for the music industry. Music enthusiasts will be familiar with his hits Pasina, Aitbaar and Chance.
In an online tribute, Dr Rajendran Govender, a commissioner at the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights (CRL) Commission South Africa, said Mohan was a bridge between cultures, generations and musical traditions.
He said through his extraordinary talent, Mohan accompanied numerous local and international artists, enriching their performances and touching countless hearts.
“There is something particularly special about an accompanist. While the spotlight often shines on the lead performer, it is the accompanist who provides the musical foundation upon which others can soar.
“Rajive understood that true greatness is not always about standing in the spotlight, but sometimes about helping others shine within it.
“Like the roots of a magnificent tree, often unseen yet essential to its strength and beauty, Rajive's musical contributions provided the foundation for many memorable performances.
His humility was as remarkable as his talent. In a world where recognition is often pursued, he demonstrated that genuine greatness requires neither arrogance nor applause. His music spoke for him.
“Rajive embodied this profound truth. His music transcended boundaries, connected people and reminded us that the arts possess an extraordinary power to unite humanity.”
He said as the country reflected on Mohan’s passing, his death was an important lesson for aspiring musicians and young artists.
“Talent may open doors, but humility, discipline and generosity of spirit leave a lasting legacy.
“Although the instruments he played may now fall silent, the melodies he helped create will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who experienced his artistry.
“A musician may leave the stage of life, but the echoes of his music remain long after the final curtain falls.
“On behalf of the cultural and artistic community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, fellow musicians and countless admirers of Rajive.
“May his loved ones find comfort in knowing that his life was not merely measured in years, but in the beautiful moments, musical memories and lives he enriched.
Rest in eternal peace, Rajive Mohan. Your earthly performance may have ended, but your melody will live on forever,” Govender said.
Tansen Nepaul said: “It is with a heavy heart and deep shock that I have to share the devastating news of the tragic and sudden passing of our brother in music, Rajiv Mohan in the early hours of this morning.
“Rajiv is well known in the music industry and his contribution to the arts is known internationally.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this tragic time,” added Nepaul.
Deshan Styler Naidoo said: “Today, South Africa feels a little quieter and significantly heavier. We have lost an absolute icon of our music industry. For decades, Rajive Unna gifted us with this incredible musical genius, leaving and undeniable mark as an incredible composer, sound engineer and band leader.”
Naidoo said that beyond his musical endeavours, Mohan was a “genuine, authentic, warm and joyful soul” who brought people together and lifted everyone’s spirits.
“Our sincere condolences and prayers to Vindantha Akka during this devastating time. Rest in eternal peace Rajive Unna. Your music will play on forever in the country you served so beautifully,” added Naidoo.
Kerolin Govender said: “A profound loss for our musical family. Uncle Rajive Mohan was a remarkable soul, a true legend.”
