Gangadhar Vidoor Jagroop (the gifted blind singer of Trinidad)

Gangadhar Vidoor Jagroop, the cherished grandfather of Ravi Jagroop, was an absolute luminary in Indian classical music in Trinidad and Tobago. Born with an innate and profound musicality, Vidoor, a naturally gifted blind singer, an exceptional dholak player, and an A-class vocalist, lived a life that was a testament to unwavering passion and profound artistic expression. His mark was truly indelible.

Vidoor’s extraordinary musical journey began early with the dholak, where he quickly distinguished himself by mastering its intricate rhythms. But his true genius shone through as he became one of the pioneering artiste, a groundbreaking visionary, to achieve the seemingly impossible: simultaneously playing the dholak and delivering captivating vocals. This rare and immensely demanding skill set wasn’t just impressive; it set him apart, redefining what was possible in performance and cementing his reputation as a trailblazer. His rich, resonant voice, combined with his masterful dholak accompaniment, made him incredibly sought after, and his unique finesse inspired countless aspiring drummers, who yearned to capture even a fraction of his talent.

Vidoor was a central and indispensable figure in the Ramsumair Veera Orchestra, formed by Ramsumair Bissembar in Marabella. Here, he graced countless stages as both a masterful drummer and a soul-stirring singer, often alongside the esteemed violin player, Cecil Fonrose. His remarkable talent also led him to accompany numerous other luminaries in the field, forging deep and lasting bonds with them. These included legends such as K.B. Singh, Pandit Mars (Krishendath Maharaj), Pandit Mahase Maharaj, and Pandit Siewdath Maharaj. His remarkable talent also led him to accompany numerous other revered musicians, forging deep bonds. Notably, for many years, he was the major and most trusted drummer that consistently accompanied the learned and highly respected Pandit Mahase Maharaj at countless Yagnas and Satsangs across the country. This enduring collaboration spoke volumes about his skill and the profound respect he commanded. Beyond performance, Vidoor, this genius, also honored cultural heritage, singing a meaningful composition for Shri Bisram Gopie J.P., a founding member and first president of the NCIC of Trinidad and Tobago.

Vidoor’s journey saw him captivating audiences not just on stage but in fierce competition. As both a singer and a drummer, he triumphantly won the highly coveted Trinidad and Tobago Championship, proving his undisputed supremacy. His talent resonated internationally too; in 1969, he proudly represented Trinidad and Tobago in Guyana at an International Indian Singing competition. In every performance, he was most captivating when he accompanied himself on the dholak as he sang his way directly into the hearts of everyone listening.

To this day, the sheer breadth and depth of Gangadhar Vidoor Jagroop’s versatility remain truly unmatched. Beyond being an “A” Class drummer and an “A” Class singer the highest levels of talent, he was also a profoundly passionate harmonium player, adding another layer to his multi-faceted genius. Gangadhar Vidoor Jagroop passed away in the 1990s, but his spirit and his profound musical legacy continue to live on vibrantly. His story is one of natural, inherent talent, groundbreaking innovation, and the enduring power of profound artistic expression. He remains, without a doubt, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s greatest and most beloved artiste, whose echoes of captivating rhythms and resonant voice will never fade. (Copyright Pandit Ashram Sharma 2025).