S.K. Lakshminarayana (Babu), Secretary of Bidaram Krishnappa’s Rama Mandira and Member of the Governing Bodies of Sri Nadabrahma Sangeetha Sabha, Raaga Vaibhava  and Swara Sankula, was conferred with ‘Vishesha Kala Poshaka’ Award by Vishesha Fine Arts, Bengaluru, on the occasion of Vishasha Utsava-2017.

The award, which is given to a person who has been striving for promoting and propagating fine arts, was conferred on Lakshminarayana at a function held at the MLR Convention Centre at Bengaluru on Feb. 19.

Lakshminarayana’s tryst with the field of classical music began at the age of 15 years and has continued even to this day. His role in building music promotion organisations in the city of Mysuru, as well as mentoring young artistes to pursue their musical dreams is now part of the musical traditions of Mysuru.

His long association with the stalwarts of Classic music of at least three to four generations has resulted in the creation of a strong bonding between not only him and Mysuru but also in building a bridge between the new generation of artistes and the emerging musical talent of the city.

As a member of the Karnataka Sangeeta Nritya Academy, Lakshminarayana has taken special initiatives to ensure that the services of senior artistes were recognised by the Academy, promote scholarship schemes for young aspirants and organise music festivals and workshops in different locations.

He also pioneered the Jugalbandi concert series in Mysuru by organising concerts featuring renowned artistes of Karnatak and Hindustani music traditions. Lakshminarayana’s role in rejuvenating and restoring the grandeur of Bidaram Krishnappa’s Rama Mandira, one of Mysuru’s heritage buildings, which is now gearing up to celebrate its 100th music festival needs special mention. Lakshminarayana’s interests are multi-faceted. He has been secretary of the National Institute of Engineering and President of the Jayachamaraja Wadiyar Golf Club.