Dr. LV Gangadhara Sastry bats for Bhagavad Gita while receiving award from President Murmu

Renowned singer, musical maestro, and visionary Dr. LV Gangadhara Shastri was recently bestowed with the prestigious ‘Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi Award-2023’ by the esteemed President of India, Mrs. Draupadi Murmu. Recognizing his unparalleled contributions to classical music, the Government of India honored Dr. Gangadhara Shastri for setting records with the highest technical values in the realm of music. The grand ceremony took place on March 6, 2024, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, graced by the esteemed presence of dignitaries including Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Mr. G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Law and Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, and Culture Mr. Arjun Ram Meghwal, Chairperson of Sangeet Natak Akademi Mrs. Sandhya Purecha, and Union Secretary for Culture Mr. Govind Mohan.

In his heartfelt address at the event, Dr. Gangadhara Shastri expressed his gratitude, reflecting on the profound significance of the award. He fondly reminisced about previous accolades, including appreciation from luminaries like Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and the conferment of the ‘Kalaratna’ from Andhra Pradesh and an ‘Honorary Doctorate’ from Panini University, Madhya Pradesh. He credited the divine guidance of Lord Krishna and the unwavering support of his parents for his remarkable journey in music. Emphasizing his ultimate mission to propagate the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and preserve Sanatana Dharma, Dr. Gangadhara Shastri called for governmental support in promoting Indian spirituality and culture. He advocated for the inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita as a national book and its integration into school curricula to safeguard the rich heritage of the nation.

Central Sangeet Natak Academy Chairperson Mrs. Sandhya Purecha paid tribute to Dr. Gangadhara Shastri’s dedication and vision, expressing her commitment to organizing Dharma propaganda programs through the teachings of the Gita. The ceremony concluded on a note of reverence and inspiration, underscoring the timeless significance of India’s spiritual and cultural legacy.