In its 30th Anniversary year, Milapfest announces a new initiative to recognise and celebrate the remarkable work of British arts professionals who have rendered truly distinguished service for promoting and strengthening the provision of Indian Arts and Education in Britain.
In addition to arts professionals, Milapfest recognizes the importance of supporting the youth of Britain and congratulating their hard work, dedication and passion in the practice, performance and propagation of Indian classical arts in this country.
An unprecedented awards ceremony
South Asians who migrated to England over the past 70 years, have always aspired to ensure that their children, as well as the local communities have good opportunities to learn about their arts and heritage through teaching and performances. Over the decades several dedicated professionals have worked tirelessly for making this possible. Up and down the British Isles there are schools, classes and art organisations working tirelessly for this cause. But while there are numerous ways of recognizing the sterling contribution of people in Business, Finance, Medicine and other professional categories, there has never been any national award that recognizes and celebrates such dedicated work in the Arts.
It is very important that the contribution of such professionals is recognized and honoured. The establishment of these awards will create a better understanding of how such selfless work empowers and enriches the younger generation, and how it helps build bridges between communities and people.
The list of the distinguished arts professionals and young musicians and dancers to whom the awards will be presented on 8th October evening at the Nehru Centre in London are as follows:
Life time Achievement Award for sterling Service to Indian Arts & Education : Dr M N Nandakumara, Executive Director, The Bhavan Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan
Acharya Ratna (Sangeet) -Distinguished Teacher Award in Music : Mrs Sivasakthi Sivanesan, Distinguished Carnatic Music Guru
Acharya Ratna (Nritya) -Distinguished Teacher Award in Dance: Ms Pushkala Gopal, Distinguished Bharatanatyam Guru
Yuva Nritya Ratna-Young dancer of the Year : Parbati Chaudhary (Kathak)
Yuva Sangeet Ratna-Young Musician of the Year: YarlinieThanabalasingham (Carnatic Vocalist)
Tarang Musician of the Year: Jasdeep Singh Degun
Samyo Musician of the Year: Sanjuran Keerthikumar
The Award Ceremony will take place at the Nehru Centre, 8 South Audley Street, London W1K 1HF. Asian Voice has been chosen as the media partner.
