Mysore/Mysuru: Rich tributes were paid to noted exponent of Hindustani Classical Music Dr. Gangubai Hangal on her 110th birth anniversary at a function held at Karnataka State Dr. Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University premises at Lakshmipuram in city recently.

The birthday celebration was inaugurated by her senior disciple and Karnataka Kalasri awardee Dr. Sulabha Datt Neeralagi by offering flowers to the portrait of Dr. Gangubai Hangal.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sulabha Datt Neeralagi said that the simplicity of Dr. Gangubai Hangal, her discipline, her teaching of music and her commitment to riyaz (systematic practice of music) were role models to her disciples like me. She was very committed to  teach music.

Chief guest Dr. Nagaraja Havaldar, who is an internationally acclaimed Hindustani Classical Musician said that the days of learning Dr. Gangubai Hangal’s music were difficult and despite severe limitations, she contributed enormously to the Hindustani Classical Music.

Another chief guest, retired IAS officer and renowned Hindustani vocalist Dr. Muddukrishna said that only an artiste can live in the hearts of the people till the end. “Music teaches peace and patience. Dr. Gangubai Hangal didn’t pursue music for any pleasure or glory. Music should be pursued to achieve excellence and not fame. Simplicity takes any profession to greater heights,” added Dr. Muddukrishna.

Vice-Chancellor of Music University Prof. Nagesh V. Bettakote, who presided, said that if students learn music with devotion, their way to achievement becomes easier. “Though our University was a little subdued during COVID period, we are now back on track by organising various cultural programmes continuously. Students who have participated in various State and South Zone music competitions have brought laurels to our University,” Prof. Bettakote added.

“Our University has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with various other Universities and Gangubai Hangal Gurukala, through which we are organising many cultural exchange programmes. More and more students are seeking admissions for Post-Graduate courses in our University. It is a matter of pride that many distinguished persons of various departments and senior  scholars  have enrolled in our Music University to obtain D.Lit degree,” Prof. Bettakote said.

Members of the Managing Committee who had worked during the period 2019-22 were felicitated on the occasion.

Later, students of the University performed cultural programmes. University Registrar (Administration) Prof. T.S. Devaraj and others were present.