Padma Shri Shankar Mahadevan has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the chancellor and president, Vijay Patil, DY Patil (deemed to be University), Navi Mumbai, at the DY Patil Grounds on Saturday March 16.
The Grammy winner was conferred this award for his contribution in the field of Arts and Society at the 18th Convocation Ceremony.
Talking at the event Shankar said that he was blessed to be awarded this honour for his work and added that it was all possible because of the wonderful people around him, “All this is only possible because of my most wonderful gurus that I had in my career and my life, and my most wonderful family. My friends and colleagues that I have in my lifetime and I am going to cherish for the rest of my life. I love you all. I just want to wish each and every person here who achieved their scholarships and degrees here today, wish you all great success and hope that wherever you are, whichever part of the world, make our country proud. Always remember that you are a Bharatiya.”
Mahadevan has had a spate of wins in the last one year. This is his second honorary Doctorate, the first one being awarded by the University of Birmingham in June 2023, and most recently, he won the Grammy.
The Grammy Award, often regarded as the pinnacle of achievement in the music industry, was bestowed upon ‘This Moment’ by the band Shakti, that Shankar Mahadevan is a part of. They bagged the Best Global Music Album award at the Grammys 2024.
The composer-singer is known for his exceptional work in integrating traditional Indian music with modern genres, creating a sound that resonates globally. This accolade not only highlights his individual talent but also underscores the universal appeal of Indian music.
Mahadevan's contributions extend beyond his musical achievements. He has been instrumental in fostering a deeper appreciation for Indian classical music among the younger generation through various educational initiatives and platforms. His efforts in bridging the gap between classical and contemporary music have made him a pivotal figure in the cultural landscape, influencing artists and audiences worldwide.
He said, “Winning the Grammy was great. You don’t get a Grammy every day! And it all happened because of the band I was a part of, Shakti, with legendary people like Ustad Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, V Selvaganesh, Ganesh Rajagopalan ji. What is most fascinating is that Indian music has reached out on a global platform to the world, and people all over the world are appreciating it and loving it. Winning the Grammy for Shakti feels like putting Indian culture on the world map.”
The ceremony at D.Y. Patil University was attended by a host of dignitaries, students, and fans, all eager to celebrate Mahadevan's accomplishments. In his acceptance speech, Mahadevan expressed his gratitude towards the university for recognizing his efforts and dedicated the award to the countless artists who strive to keep the tradition of Indian music alive. He emphasized the importance of music as a unifying force in society and encouraged the students to pursue their passions with dedication and perseverance.
Mahadevan's honorary doctorate from D.Y. Patil University is a testament to his enduring impact on the arts and society. His journey from a celebrated musician to a global ambassador of Indian culture exemplifies the transformative power of music and its ability to transcend boundaries.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
