Nagpur, March 23 The awards encourage young and talented artists on a national platform and reflect the true spirit of Indian music, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said while presenting the '13th Lokmat Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards' here.
The Lokmat Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards have been established in memory of the late Jyotsna Darda – the founder of Lokmat Sakhi Manch and a devoted connoisseur of music.
The awards were presented in a grand ceremony on Sunday at the Mankapur Divisional Sports Complex here, in the presence of thousands of music lovers.
Young artists Sharayu Date and Hrishikesh Karmarkar were honoured with the 'Sur Jyotsna National Music Award' for their excellence in the 'Varkari' tradition and classical vocals, respectively, while renowned classical vocalist Pt. Ajay Pohankar was conferred the 'Legend Award'. Noted music composer Anu Malik received a 'Special Award'.
"The awards encourage young and talented artists on a national platform and reflect the true spirit of Indian music. Jyotsna Darda was a true devotee of music. She dedicated herself to the service of musical notes, and I make it a point to attend these awards every year," the CM said.
The event featured a mesmerizing live concert by renowned playback singer Shaan, who was honoured with the 'Icon Award'. Prodigy Nishant Gupta was presented with the 'Child Talent Award'.
Chairman of the Editorial Board of Lokmat Media Group and former Rajya Sabha member Dr Vijay Darda, in his address, paid heartfelt tribute to Jyotsna Darda.
This marks the thirteenth year of the awards dedicated to encouraging young and versatile musical talent across the country, Darda said.