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A.R. Rahman Announces Bharat Maestro Awards to Honour Indian Classical Music Legends
by EVENTFAQS Bureau Entertainment | January 9, 2025 | News
A.R. Rahman KM Music Conservatory
A.R. Rahman has introduced the Bharat Maestro Awards, an initiative aimed at recognising the contributions of Indian classical music legends and encouraging young musicians. In partnership with the KM Music Conservatory, the awards will focus on preserving the traditions of classical music while supporting the next generation of artists.
The Bharat Maestro Awards will feature three main categories: Awards for Stellar Young Musicians, Lifetime Achievement Award for the Guru and State Medallion for Music Contribution. Winners will receive cash prizes, opportunities to perform internationally, and the chance to collaborate with A.R. Rahman.
Rahman shared, "The greatest joy of a guru is to see their students grow and succeed. This isn’t just about giving awards—it’s about connecting the past, present, and future of music while keeping our traditions strong."
The initiative will also benefit from guidance by prominent musicians such as Asha Bhosle, Amjad Ali Khan, Bombay Jayashri, and Ajoy Chakrabarty. Rahman’s daughter, Khatija Rahman, along with experts like Ila Paliwal, Bharat Bala, and Sai Shravanam, will also offer their advice.
Rahman added, "This initiative is about honoring the bond between teachers and students. The conservatory has always worked to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, and with this award, we want to support young artists while keeping them connected to India’s cultural heritage."
The Bharat Maestro Awards will also aim to make classical music more accessible to younger audiences by incorporating modern performances and visual storytelling. The goal is to ensure that classical music remains relevant and engaging for future generations.
The awards were announced on Rahman’s 58th birthday, reflecting his ongoing dedication to supporting music at every level. "This is about building an ecosystem where tradition and innovation come together, ensuring classical music remains an important part of our cultural identity," Rahman stated.
In partnership with the KM Music Conservatory, the awards will focus on preserving the traditions of classical music while supporting the next generation of artists.