Sangeet Natak Akademi’s ‘Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Award’ 2023 announced to Sarang Kulkarni
PUNE: The ‘Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Award’ given in the name of Ustad Bismillah Khan is a significant national award, as it accords national recognition to the recipient. “As fascinating it seems to be selected for this award named after Ustadji, I am aware that it has come to me with an added responsibility,” expressed Sarang Kulkarni, a promising Sarod player from Pune, while his name was announced for the Sangeet Natak Akademi’s ‘Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Award’ under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Every year, this award is conferred upon promising young artists in recognition of their excellence in the fields of music, dance, theatre, traditional arts, etc. This award for 2022-2023 was recently announced and was declared in the name of Sarang Kulkarni, under the category of classical instruments in the field of music.
The award will be presented at a special function that will soon take place in Delhi. The ‘Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar’ will be presented in the form of Rs 25,000 cash and a Tamrapatra. It has been presented by Sangeet Natak Akademi since 2006 and stands out as significant as many renowned artists across India have been honored with it.
While speaking on the occasion, Sarang Kulkarni said, “When my parents broke the news to me over a call, I was unable to believe it. It’s like a dream to get an award in the name of a veteran artist like Ustad Bismillah Khan. I dedicated this award to my father and Guru Pt. Rajan Kulkarni. This award is something that will give me new energy and new direction, while also making me aware of my new responsibilities.”
“An instrument like Sarod is a bit difficult to play. But I am sure that this award will surely help the instrument to reach the young generation and enthusiasts today,” he further added.
Kulkarni also emphasized that young artists should try and focus on learning this instrument.
