Pandit Hariprasad Chowrasia

Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia is a renowned Indian flute player whose repertoire is in Hindustani Classical tradition. He is also a music composer and his performances and compositions brought global recognition to the Indian flute. He is the recipient of many prestigious awards notably Sangeet Natak Academy Award, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. He also serves as the Artistic Director of the World Music Department at the Rotterdam Music Conservatory in the Netherlands.

My heartiest congratulations and warm wishes to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji on his 70^th Birthday! I pray to God to bless him with good health, will power and strength to lead a long and healthy life. 

I have fond memories of my meetings with him. He has always been very cordial and respectful to Arts & Artistes. Once when he was the CM of Gujarat, he had attended one of my concerts at Saptak in Ahmedabad and sat throughout the entire recital which was quite an unusual thing for such a busy politician! I also remember the time when he had come to felicitate Pt. Birju Maharaj ji and so humbly greeted us both on stage. 

I admire the way he has come up in life and made us all proud with his leadership. His dynamic nature, futuristic approach, modern thoughts and bold decisions have inspired millions and made him a popular leader both in India and across the globe. I am sure Indian Art and Culture will also thrive under his leadership. I am very happy with the new education policy where music, arts and sports have been given equal importance like other subjects. Small steps like these will go a long way in the well-being and positive development of our youth. I also hope that the Government gives some thought to senior retired artistes for their social security and health insurance. Like Government servants, we artistes also serve our country through our music and arts and represent: our country and its rich heritage. I am sure under Modiji’s guidance more encouraging actions will be taken in this direction. I wish him all the very best and pray for his good health and prosperity!