Mangaluru: On the occasion of 103rd birth anniversary of Dr Puttaraj Gawai, the prestigious ‘Puttaraj Sanmana – 2016’ was conferred on Pandit Vidyadhar Vyas at the Town Hall here, on March 3.
Pandit Vyas inaugurated the programme by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries, after which Pandit Vyas was honoured with a shawl, memento and a cash award of Rs 1 lakh.
Vice President of Dr Puttaraj Gawai Prathishtana, Shankar Khumbi said, “This is the 19th time we are bestowing this award. This is not limited just to one place, we have organised this programme in various parts of the state. It is a day when people of Mangaluru will learn of the great soul, Dr Gawai. After we started a trust in his name, the government also started trusts after many other great musicians and has led the way to recognise great talents.”
Pandit Vyas said, “I am overwhelmed by this gesture. Hindustani music is heavenly and this award is for this great music. Music is the greatest gift of God to mankind.”
He further said, “There was a time when western music was considered to be superior, but the times have changed now. Even the west considers Hindustani and carnatic music to be superior and scientific. We can’t compare it with any other music.” He said that ‘raaga’ is a living entity and is just like God. “Raagas have been with us for centuries like living beings. Though it seems that there is no raaga left to be sung, each time a singer recites a raaga it is unique,” he added.
“These awards serve as an inspiration to go beyond the broad horizon. Dr Puttaraj Gawai serves as a great inspiration for selfless service. There is so much more to be done in music. We have to offer our talent to God, which was given to us by him,” he said.
ADC Kumar said, “Dr Gawai has taught so many students and had given vision to several disabled. His contribution to the society is permanent. If we observe closely, everyone who is proficient in music has been a role model to the society. Music and art are important for humanity and to be a good human, we need to learn something about music and art. I feel quite privileged to present this award to a great personality.”
Pandit Rafeeq Khan, Narendra L Naik, Mahabaleshwara Hasinal and Ramakrishna Rap were also present.