The prestigious ‘Sumitra Charat Ram Award’ for Lifetime Achievement 2023 was presented by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra to Padmashri Smt. Shobha Deepak Singh at a grand ceremony held on Friday, November 17th, 2023, within the elegant premises of Kamani Auditorium situated at 1, Copernicus Marg, New Delhi.
During this significant event, the revered sarod maestro, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, bestowed the esteemed ‘Sumitra Charat Ram Award’ for Lifetime Achievement upon Smt. Shobha Deepak Singh. This recognition celebrated her steadfast commitment to Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra and her impactful role as a cultural ambassador of Indian heritage. The evening resonated with a mesmerizing sarod recital performed by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, accompanied by his sons, Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, further enriching the occasion.
Distinguished guest Shri Pavan K Varma, a seasoned Diplomat, Author, and Former MP (Rajya Sabha), graced the ceremony as the Guest of Honour.
Established in 2010, the ‘Sumitra Charat Ram Award’ for Lifetime Achievement recognizes eminent artists who have made enduring contributions to Indian classical music and dance. Past recipients of this esteemed award include luminaries such as Pt. Birju Maharaj, Smt. Kishori Amonkar, Shri Mayadhar Raut, Smt. Kumudini Lakhia, Pt. Jasraj, Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, Smt. Girija Devi, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Dr. Sonal Mansingh, and Dr. Uma Sharma.
The Kamani Auditorium brimmed with anticipation as Smt. Gauri S. Keeling extended a warm welcome to the audience, followed by an insightful address by Shri Pavan K Varma.
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, with his soulful renditions on the sarod, captivated the audience, accompanied by his sons, Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, in a symphony of melodic exchanges. During the award presentation to Shobha Deepak Singh, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan expressed, “Tonight, we honor a true legend of Indian classical music, an individual whose dedication has preserved and promoted our musical heritage. Shobhaji’s impact extends beyond music, as she has championed our cultural identity worldwide. With immense pride, I present this lifetime achievement award to a true maestro.”
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Padmashri Mrs. Shobha Deepak Singh conveyed her gratitude and wisdom. She remarked, “With heartfelt gratitude, I accept this honor, not merely for myself but for our nation’s collective spirit. Our art embodies our soul, and I am humbled to have contributed to its preservation. To the younger generation, embrace our heritage; let its melodies, hues, and movements ignite your passions. This award signifies not an end but a new chapter, a reminder of my duty to perpetuate our nation’s artistic legacy.”
The audience departed carrying the lingering echoes of the musical performances, infused with renewed appreciation for the transformative power of art.
