A.R. Rahman Launches Bharat Maestro Awards to Honor Indian Classical Music Legends

A.R. Rahman Launches Bharat Maestro Awards to Honor Indian Classical Music Legends

By Marcus Bennett

January 16, 2025 at 09:00 AM

A.R. Rahman has launched the Bharat Maestro Awards through his KM Music Conservatory to honor legends in Indian classical music and support emerging talent.

AR Rahman in closeup portrait

AR Rahman in closeup portrait

Photo Credit: A.R. Rahman by Dani Charles for Silverscreen Media / CC by 3.0

The initiative coincides with the conservatory's 16th anniversary and aims to connect music's past, present, and future. Award winners will receive cash prizes and opportunities to perform globally, including collaborations with Rahman himself.

A distinguished mentor panel includes renowned artists:

  • Asha Bhosle
  • Amjad Ali Khan
  • Bombay Jayashri
  • Ajoy Chakrabarty

The advisory board comprises industry experts:

  • Ila Paliwal
  • Sai Shravanam
  • Bharat Bala
  • Fathima Rafiq
  • Khatija Rahman
  • Adam Greig
  • Clint Valladares

The KM Music Conservatory, established by Rahman, offers comprehensive programs in Western and Indian Classical music traditions, along with music technology. The institution maintains international education standards while preserving India's musical heritage.

"The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students," Rahman stated, emphasizing that the awards will serve as more than just recognition—they aim to unite people through music while making classical traditions more accessible to younger audiences.

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