Bhapang maestro Gafruddin Mewati Jogi and Santoor maestro Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya, recipients of the Padma Shri this year, thanked the government for the honor. Jogi, from Rajasthan, felt the award should have come earlier but is grateful for the recognition. He hopes for more support to increase his shows and income for his family’s well-being.
The Padma Awards, totaling 131, were announced on Republic Day, with an Investiture Ceremony scheduled for May 25 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Jogi, appreciative of the government’s acknowledgment, also seeks more opportunities for artists like him to perform.
Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the prestigious Padma Shri award. He regrets his parents not witnessing his achievement and emphasizes the importance of teaching music to children as a positive influence. Bhattacharya encourages parents and teachers to introduce music to children, highlighting its beneficial impact on mental well-being.
The Santoor maestro also shared his thoughts on the Padma award selection process, acknowledging the intelligence behind the choices. He emphasized the need for recognition of individuals who contribute significantly to society but may not receive awards. Bhattacharya, a senior figure in the field of santoor, stressed the importance of preserving musical traditions and passing on knowledge to future generations.
