Renowned Psychedelic Trance DJ and producer, Goa Gil, sadly passed away at the age of 72 on October 26th, 8:30 pm PST, after a courageous battle with cancer. The news of his death was confirmed through a heartfelt message on Gil's website and Instagram, which conveyed the profound loss and gratitude to his global community of fans.
The statement expressed, "Dear Global Community, Words are inadequate for what we wish to communicate with you. It is with heavy hearts that we share with you news of Shri Mahant Managalanand Puri, aka Goa Gil, has left his worldly body in the comfort of his home." In his final days, Goa Gil wished to extend his love and blessings to all his supporters and express his appreciation for the unwavering love he had received throughout his career. He departed in a state of peace, prepared for his onward journey, and his family and supporters were deeply grateful for the respect and support during this sensitive period.
Earlier in the year, Gil had relocated to California to undergo treatment for high-grade B Cell lymphoma, leading to the cancellation of his 2023 tour dates. After a brief period of remission in late June, the cancer returned aggressively, preventing further treatment. In his last days, he was surrounded by loved ones at his home in California.
Born in 1951 in San Rafael, California, Goa Gil had a unique perspective on music and counterculture. He witnessed the emergence of the hippie movement and acid rock and was closely associated with collectives such as Family Dog and Sons of Champlin. In the 1980s, he and his friends pioneered all-night DJ sets and live music performances on the beaches of Goa. By the 1990s, the influence of the Goa trance movement had expanded, with European and Israeli backpackers attending parties in India, spreading its unique aesthetic worldwide.
Goa Gil's legacy will continue through a Samadhi temple to be constructed in Ujjain, where special pujas and ceremonies will be conducted annually by his peers in his honor.