Mumbai’s esteemed People’s Arts Centre (PAC) is set to unveil a first-of-its kind award in the name of veteran playback singer, Dr KJ Yesudas. The event, which will unfold at ISKCON Auditorium, marks the 84th birthday of the legend from Kerala on January 10, 2024.
The Saptaswar Samrat Dr. K.J. Yesudas Achievement Award will be the highlight of the evening, celebrating the unparalleled contributions of seven distinguished playback singers. It includes Hemlata, Udit Narayan, Suresh Wadkar, Anup Jalota, Shabbir Kumar, Shailendra Singh and Babul Supriyo. This prestigious award not only acknowledges their exceptional talent but also honours the legacy of Dr. K.J. Yesudas, an icon in the world of Indian playback singing. He stands as an eminent figure in the realm of Indian playback singing, boasting a career that spans over five decades. Rooted in classical singing, his mellifluous voice and unparalleled versatility have made him a living legend, enchanting audiences across languages and genres.
Music lovers in Mumbai will recall some of his iconic Hindi songs, which include remarkable vocal prowess and his ability to infuse depth and emotion into each composition. These timeless melodies include gems like Gori Tera Gaon Bada Pyara (Chitchor, 1976), Surmai Ankhiyon Mein (Sadma, 1983),Dil Ke Tukde Tukde Karke (Dada, 1979), among others.
Revered for his emotive renditions, Yesudas has received innumerable accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan and the National Award for Best Male Playback Singer. With an extensive discography spanning multiple languages, he remains an icon whose timeless melodies continue to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of the nation.
The award, which includes a specially designed memento, a cash prize, and a commemorative souvenir, aims to encourage and applaud the outstanding achievements of these artists who have enriched the musical tapestry of the nation.
The grand ceremony will be complemented by a captivating musical programme, titled ‘Ek Sangeet Safar – Bollywood Hits of Yesudas’, featuring enchanting renditions of Bollywood hits of Yesudas. This promises to be an unforgettable night for music enthusiasts, industry insiders, and fans alike.
With a legacy spanning four decades, PAC continues to be a stalwart in recognising and promoting excellence in the arts. As Mumbai’s cultural epicentre, it takes pride in its commitment to fostering artistic excellence. The introduction of the Saptaswar Samrat Dr. K.J. Yesudas Achievement Award further solidifies PAC’s dedication to recognising and honouring the luminaries who have significantly shaped the landscape of Indian playback singing. This event also marks a significant milestone as the 1058th programme organised by this esteemed cultural outfit. People’s Arts Centre (PAC) is a renowned cultural organisation in Mumbai that has been at the forefront of promoting and celebrating excellence in various forms of performing arts for over four decades in all Indian languages. PAC aims to provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents and contribute to the rich cultural heritage of India.
