‘India’s creativity captivating whole world’

 Media Coverage  |  14-04-2025

Underscoring the essence of the ceremony, Shekhawat said the Lokmat Sur Jyotsna National Music Award was not just an award, but a true tribute to Jyotsna Darda, a champion of social service and women empowerment. The award serves as an encouragement and guidance for rising talents in various fields, he said.  Noted singers Anup Jalota and Sunali Rathod, Shashi Vyas, Gauri  Yadwadkar of Times Music and managing director and editorial director of Lokmat Media Group Devendra Darda were the members of jury board. Dignitaries and guests from different walks of life, office-bearers and members of Gurdwara Rakabganj Sahib, Delhi Marathi Pratishthan, Dwarka Marathi Mandal, Ramai Group and All India Siddharth Welfare Centre were present.

‘Immerse oneself

in the joy of music’

Padma Vibhushan, Bharatanatyam and Odissi classical style exponent, Sonal Mansingh said, “We only get one life and what better way to celebrate it but by immersing oneself in the joy of music”. She appreciated Lokmat’s support for vocal and instrumental music artistes and expressed the hope that dance would also be included in future editions. She said Jyotsna Darda would be pleased to see her legacy being preserved when she watched the programme from the heavens. Referring to the poor condition of lifelong music devotee Chhannulal Maharaj, she urged Dr. Darda to do something for him.

Mame Khan regales

Folk singer Mame Khan’s performance of “Kesariya Balam Padharo Mhare Desh” and “Jab Bhi Dekhu Dikhati Laal-Peeli Ankhiyan” had the audience erupt in thunderous applause. The patriotic song “Vande Mataram” received a rousing ovation with hands raised in unison. A devotional bhajan of Meerabai stirred the audience with spiritual energy, and on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, the bhajan “Ram Kisiko Marat Nahi” filled the auditorium with devotional vibes.

Azad appreciates Lokmat initiative

Recalling Jyotsna Darda’s warm nature and hospitality, Ghulam Nabi Azad said it was reassuring to see that music was still being appreciated and recognised in the country.  He praised Lokmat’s efforts in conferring these awards. The veteran leader expressed concern over the fading tradition of ‘mushairas’ (poetry recitals) in India and said that he was afraid that music might meet the same fate. In this context, he said Lokmat’s initiative in scouting and supporting new artistes from across the country was praiseworthy and it dispelled the fear of music losing out. Azad, reflecting on his 45-year-long association with the Darda family, said Lokmat doesn’t just honour musicians but uplifts everyone—from MPs to village sarpanchs—by recognising their contributions and boosting morale.

Music, a source of

energy and peace,

says Dr Vijay Darda

Music is nature’s greatest gift which provides human beings with both energy and peace, said Chairman of the Editorial Board of Lokmat Media Group and former member of Rajya Sabha Dr Vijay Darda during the Lokmat Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards ceremony.Dr. Darda stated that music is a self-sufficient science that offers the energy and tranquillity required in daily life. He elaborated that when humans added their voice to the sounds born from nature, music was born. “Music experts created different ragas and invented musical instruments. We are indebted to the great souls who enriched music. Without music, without the union of melody (sur) and rhythm (taal), without the touch of song and harmony, our lives would have been dull and monotonous. We all must remember this,” said Dr. Darda.He continued by sharing that his life partner and source of strength, Jyotsna dedicated her life to music from a young age. In her memory, the Lokmat Media Group honours those who have made invaluable contributions to the field of music through the Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards.Sharing memories, Dr. Darda said, “Jyotsna started learning music as a child and would practise for hours. She sought guidance from musical experts to refine her skills. Immersed in music, she often forgot her own sorrows. Even during her battle with cancer, she never abandoned music. In fact, before leaving for Mumbai for treatment, she practised music. Such dedication to music is truly rare. That’s why Lokmat choose music as the medium to keep her memory alive. However, enriching the world of music further is a responsibility we all share”.

Padma Shri Ahmad Hussain and Mohammad Hussain presenting a soulful gazal on the occasion. 

Rare ‘jugalbandi’ of sitar, flute and tabla

Sitar performance by Mehtab Ali, flute by S. Akash, and tabla by Ishaan Ghosh earned roaring applause from the audience. The unique ‘jugalbandi’ of tabla, flute, and sitar was a treat for the music connoisseurs in the National Capital. Speaking on the occasion, Mehtab Ali expressed gratitude, saying: “Lokmat has shown us great love. Dr. Vijay Darda’s affection gave us the opportunity to perform for Lokmat.”

View Image