Kolkata, Jan 26 (NationPress) Esteemed Santoor virtuoso Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya, who received the Padma Shri award this year, expressed his gratitude towards the Central government for acknowledging his contributions to Indian classical music. He emphasized that this distinguished award would fuel his resolve to immerse himself in his craft even more deeply.

In an interview with IANS, Bhattacharya reminisced about his musical odyssey and personal experiences, noting that he began his santoor training at the mere age of four. He firmly believes that music is the unparalleled force capable of fostering peace and unity in the world.

Upon learning of his selection for the prestigious award, Tarun remarked: "Receiving this honor serves as a significant source of encouragement. It propels me to enhance my efforts and dedicate myself even further to music."

Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya is celebrated as a legendary santoor player and an innovator in the field. Throughout his career, he has developed new ragas and playing techniques and created mankas (fine tuners) for the santoor, which ensure exceptional tuning precision.

His roots trace back to Nidhiram Majhi Lane in Howrah district, where his father, a sitar player, significantly influenced his initial musical education.

After relocating to Chowdhury Para Lane in Howrah during his fourth grade, his family established the ‘Santragachi Music Academy’ at their home, where regular music practice sessions were conducted.

Now residing in Kolkata, Bhattacharya manages an academy called Santoor Ashram. He frequently returns to his ancestral home in Howrah, maintaining a strong connection to his origins.

Reflecting on the honor, he stated: "The realm of music is akin to an ocean; there is no limit to learning. This award signifies that my efforts resonate with people's hearts. It intensifies my desire to strive harder and perform with greater excellence."

His younger brother, Arun Bhattacharya, remembered his brother's early enthusiasm for music and relentless commitment to practice.

"From a young age, my brother displayed a profound passion for the tabla, sarod, and santoor. Eventually, he chose the santoor and devoted countless hours to practice. This recognition is truly well-deserved," he shared.

The Central government unveiled the names of this year's Padma award recipients on the eve of Republic Day (January 25).

A total of 131 individuals received honors this year across the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri categories. Notably, eleven recipients hail from West Bengal, all recognized with the Padma Shri award. No nominees from the state were included in the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan categories this year.