Mysore/Mysuru: Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji was conferred the prestigious Piteelu Chowdaiah Lifetime Award at a programme jointly organised by Sri Nadabrahma Sangeetha Sabha and Sangeetha Ratna Mysore T. Chowdaiah Samsmarana Vedike at the Sabha premises on JLB road here last evening.

Speaking after receiving the award, Ganapathy Swamiji said that listening to music will help overcome our sorrows and grief. Wondering how many people would not like to listen to music, he said that everyone needs music for a refreshing mind. Maintaining that music flows in our blood and veins, the Swamiji said that according to some music scholars, there is music even in our breathing.

Contending that practicing Pranayama and Yoga on a daily basis will keep most of the diseases and ailments at bay,  he said that the COVID outbreak has taught us many lessons on what would happen if we go against nature.

Noting that the pandemic has taught many about  the value of discipline and money, he regretted that the livelihood of several musicians has come under threat due to the pandemic. He stressed on the need for coming to the aid of musicians who are hard hit by the pandemic.

Recalling the contribution of Music Maestro Piteelu Chowdaiah, he said Chowdaiah, who was popularly known as ‘Mysore Chowdaiah’, was liked by one and all. Sri Swamiji also recalled his meetings with the legendary musical icon.

The event was followed by a flute performance by Vidwan A. Chandan Kumar, the great-grandson of Piteelu Chowdaiah, which enthralled the audience. He was accompanied by Vidushi Charulatha Ramanujan on the violin, Vidwan H.S. Sudheendra on mridanga and Vidwan G.S. Ramanujan   on ghata.

Nadabrahma Sangeetha Sabha President T.R. Harish, Secretary K.S.N. Prasad,  Sangeetha Ratna Mysore T. Chowdaiah Samsmarana Vedike Trustee Dr. M.A. Shekar and others were present.