IGNCA Recognizes Padma Awardees at a Celebration
A prestigious ceremony took place at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) on Tuesday, honoring five remarkable individuals who received the Padma Shri award for their exceptional contributions to art and temple architecture. The event celebrated the achievements of renowned personalities, including art historian Prof. Ratan Parimoo, musicologist Prof. Bharat Gupt, sculptor Shri Adwaita Charan Gadanayak, temple architect Shri Radhakrishnan Sthapathy, and traditional singer Begum Batool. The ceremony, envisioned by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, was presided over by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, who emphasized the importance of these awardees in preserving India’s cultural heritage.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
During her address, Dr. Sonal Mansingh extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Padma awardees, recognizing their significant roles in enriching India’s cultural landscape. She highlighted that these individuals serve as inspirations for society and are crucial in preserving and promoting traditional arts. Dr. Mansingh also reflected on the unique bond that forms between the IGNCA and those associated with it, noting that many develop lifelong connections with the institution. She reaffirmed IGNCA’s commitment to excellence, stating that even the most challenging tasks are executed with remarkable efficiency and integrity. Her remarks underscored the institution’s role as a beacon of Indian art and culture.
Honoring Distinguished Scholars
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, welcomed the attendees and expressed pride in honoring the Padma Shri awardees, each of whom shares a deep connection with the institution. He affectionately referred to Begum Batool as an elder sister and praised Radhakrishnan Sthapathy for choosing to continue his father’s legacy in temple architecture, despite his engineering background. Dr. Joshi emphasized that the celebration was not just about recognition but also about the emotional ties that bind these distinguished scholars to IGNCA. He noted that this year’s Padma Awards felt particularly personal, as several awardees have longstanding associations with the institution.
Insightful Introductions and Performances
The event featured insightful introductions by various heads of divisions at IGNCA, who highlighted the significant contributions of the awardees. Prof. Sudhir Lall discussed the enduring impact of Prof. Bharat Gupt and Prof. Ratan Parimoo in classical thought and art history. Prof. Achal Pandya elaborated on Shri Radhakrishnan Sthapathy’s dedication to preserving South India’s sculptural traditions. Prof. Richa Kamboj presented a profile of Shri Adwaita Gadanayak, emphasizing his achievements as a sculptor and arts administrator. Additionally, Shri Anurag Punetha introduced Begum Batool, detailing her efforts in preserving oral and folk traditions. The awardees expressed their gratitude to IGNCA for the ceremony, with Begum Batool enchanting the audience by singing the famous Rajasthani folk song “Kesariya Balam Padharo Mhare Des.”
A Gathering of Scholars and Art Enthusiasts
The ceremony, held at the Samvet Auditorium, attracted scholars, students, and art enthusiasts from across the country. Attendees praised the awardees as guardians of India’s cultural consciousness. Organized by IGNCA, the event served not only as a tribute to the honorees but also as an inspiring initiative to pass on the legacy of Indian artistic traditions to future generations. The celebration highlighted the importance of recognizing and honoring those who contribute significantly to the preservation and promotion of India’s rich cultural heritage.
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