This year, the revered doyen of Hindustani classical music, Pandit K. Venkatesh Kumar, is set to be honored with the distinguished State Sangeetha Vidwan Award.
This highly esteemed award is presented annually by the Department of Kannada and Culture, typically during the grand inauguration of the Dasara cultural festivities, right in front of the majestic palace.
Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Thangadagi, expressed immense joy in announcing Pandit Venkatesh Kumar’s selection. He highlighted that Kumar is a monumental figure in Hindustani classical music, whose exceptional singing has garnered both national and international recognition.
The award ceremony, featuring a generous cash prize of ₹5 lakh, a commemorative citation, and a memento, will take place on September 22. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will personally present the honor in front of the historic Mysuru palace. According to the Minister, the advisory committee, led by Y.K. Muddukrishna, meticulously made this year’s selection.