The Late Arun Paudwal Gratitude Award, which honors the memory of the famous accordion player, skilled music arranger, and talented composer Arun Paudwal, has been celebrated for the past 27 years in a simple, homely, and joyous atmosphere. This year, renowned playback singer Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal, along with Kavita Paudwal-Tulpule and the Paudwal family, presented the award to noted singer-composer Tyagraj Khadilkar at their residence in Khar. The award includes a cash prize of 51,000 rupees and a memento.
Explaining the concept of this honor, Anuradha Paudwal said, “Arunji was an exceptionally high-caliber musician. It is essential to honor artists appropriately. While fans often organize award ceremonies, it is more significant when an artist honors another artist. This is the 27th ceremony, and previously, artists who have worked with Arunji and understood his methods and temperament have been honored. This year, Tyagraj was chosen for a special reason. A few months ago, I attended an event where he had created an album with differently-abled children. I believe this is the only album of its kind in the world, featuring such beautiful music and arrangement. The idea of promoting another artist struck a chord with me, and that’s why he was selected for this award.”
Expressing his feelings, Tyagraj Khadilkar said, “This award is extremely important to me. Seeing the list of past recipients over the last 26 years left me thrilled. Being included in this group of distinguished artists who have received this award in Arunji’s name is very significant for me. Arunji’s influence on my music and arrangements is profound and evident in my songs. Receiving an award in his name, and that too from Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal, is incredibly fortunate and inspiring for me.”
The ceremony took place at Anuradha Paudwal’s residence, located at the Dakshineshwari Kali Mata Temple. During the event, Atul Kasbe and Vijayalakshmi Yadav, two visually impaired singers from the album Timiratuni Tejakade, presented by Swarkul Trust, were also honored by Anuradhaji. The compositions, created by Tyagrajji and performed by these blind singers, received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Tyagrajji also announced the plan for a Hindi album featuring visually impaired singers and a Hindi program Bhajanganga with Anuradha Paudwal. The event was organized and anchored by Chandrashekhar Mahamuni, a dedicated fan and connoisseur of the late Arun Paudwal.
