Mysore/Mysuru: Emphasising on the need for taking classical music to greater heights, Kukke Subramanya Mutt seer Vidya Prasanna Teertha Swamiji said that at the same time, it must also be ensured that classical music does not get weakened under the influence of modern music.

He was speaking after inaugurating Mysore Maharaja Sri Jayachamaraja Wadiyar and Padma Bhushan Sangeetha Kalanidhi Dr. R.K. Srikantan birth centenary celebrations jointly organised by Vidwan R.K. Srikantan Trust and Ganabharathi at Veene Seshanna Bhavan on Adichunchanagiri Road in Kuvempunagar yesterday.

Noting that many are contributing for the growth of  classical music within the framework of conservatism, he said that classical music has its own speciality and richness. Pointing out that Haridasa compositions have the strength to attract a big audience, Vidya Prasanna Teertha Swamiji said that classical music will remain eternal because of its richness and unique characteristics.

Highlighting the contributions made by Sri Jayachamaraja Wadiyar and R.K. Srikantan for the promotion of classical music, he said that the names of the two great personalities will always remain etched in the minds of music-lovers across the country.

JSS Sangeetha Sabha President K. Ramamurthy Rao said that different forms of music and arts give new enthusiasm to life. He called upon the youth to engage themselves in arts and music activities.

Ganabharathi President Dr. C.G. Narasimhan, Nadabrahma Sangeetha Sabha  President K.V. Murthy, JSS Sangeetha Sabha President Prof. K. Ramamurthy Rao and Sri Thyagaraja Sangeetha Sabha Secretary H.K. Narasimha Murthy were conferred ‘Kala Poshaka Shreshta’ award on the occasion.

A live concert CD of R.K. Srikantan’s and a book ‘Sampradaya Sangeetha Darshini’ were also released on the occasion.

Vidwan Rudrapatnam S. Ramakanth, son of R.K. Srikantan, presented a musical concert following the award presentation.