Composer A.R. Rahman, who has received Grammys and Oscars, has launched the Bharat Maestro Awards in collaboration with KM Music Conservatory, his music school.
These honors were created in an effort to honor legendary figures in the profession, recognize the lasting influence of Indian classical music, and stoke the enthusiasm of aspiring performers.
The program honors the esteemed Indian classical music maestros while attempting to preserve the cultural legacy.
Rahman said, via Variety, "The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students, and it is this bond that the Bharat Maestro Awards seeks to celebrate."
"This initiative goes beyond just awards; it connects the past, present, and future of music, uniting us all through the language of sound."
In addition to honoring the legacies of music legends from the past, the upcoming awards ceremony will shine a spotlight on the accomplishments of today's music icons.
Its grand debut coincides with the 16th anniversary of KM Music Conservatory.
KM Music Conservatory stands as a prestigious institution providing part-time and full-time programs in Hindustani and Western classical music, as well as music technology.
Among the esteemed musicians set to serve on the mentor panel are iconic figures such as Asha Bhosle, Amjad Ali Khan, Bombay Jayashri, and Ajoy Chakrabarty.
The Bharat Maestro Awards celebrate individuals in a range of categories. These include the Stellar Young Musicians Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award for the Guru, and the State Medallion for Music Contribution.
Four awards will be bestowed upon talented young musicians, alongside a lifetime achievement award for educators.
Those who have significantly aided in the preservation of classical music in the area will receive a state medallion.
The awards event will honor the rich cultural legacy of mentoring in music by adhering to the traditional Indian Guru-Shishya (Teacher-Disciple) model.
In addition to receiving financial compensation, those who get this award will have the opportunity to perform on a worldwide stage and maybe collaborate with the renowned maestro.