Bangalore, July 21 - A pall of gloom descended over the cultural fraternity in Karnataka on the news of the death of legendary Hindustani classical singer Gangubai Hangal Tuesday.

The 96-year-old legend died following cardiac and respiratory problems at Hubli town, about 480 km from here.

Expressing sadness over the death, noted playwright U.R. Ananthamurthy told IANS: 'She belonged to the Kirana gharana, and was a unique singer. Her dignity and grace were unsurpassed. Not only was she very melodious, but her hold over the grammar and structure of classical music was of superior nature.'

'I don't think she has died, but has only stopped crooning in her melodious voice. Till recently she was singing, in spite of her old age and ill health. I don't think, anybody like her will be ever born again. She was a star in the art fraternity,' the Jnanpith award winner mourned.

Echoing Ananthamurthy, noted playwright and actor Girish Karnad expressed sadness at the death of the legend, who had mesmerized music lovers for over six decades.

'She was a maestro and will be always be remembered as a genius.