On the 83rd birth anniversary of lyricist-composer and a singer par excellence Sikander Alam, a musical extravaganza was organised at Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar in remembrance of his ever-lasting legacy in Odia music industry.
By: Devbrat Patnaik
Last updated: 27 Jul 2022, 02:40 PM IST
The recipient of the inaugural Sikander Alam Memorial Award – noted Odia singer Pranab Patnaik graced the occasion and performed one of Alam's hit songs - Megha Barasila Tupuru Tupuru.
Former MP Prasanna Patasani, MLA Ananta Jena, Bhubaneswar mayor Sulochana Das, senior police officials and other dignitaries were present at the Jayanti celebrations.
Eminent musician Abanikanta Das, fondly called as Genu, was felicitated with the Sikander Alam Vadya Ratna Samman-2022. A recognized artiste of AIR, Das is the brainchild behind many hit musical albums and has been a professional rhythm player for over 3 decades.
Born into a family of music lovers, Abanikanta Das has very strong memory skills when it comes to retro music which has helped the music industry preserve priceless Odia songs. Das received a cash award of Rs 25000 for his exemplary contribution to Odia music and culture.
Legendary singer Sekhar Ghosh (third from left) received the Sikander Alam Memorial Award-2022. He was also felicitated with a cash award of Rs 50000. One of his songs ‘Hrudayara Ei Sunyata ku’ is ruling Odia hearts even today.
The event was also marked by group performances by many noted singers from Odisha who paid a melodious musical tribute to Sikander Alam.