Award to mark 75th anniversary of India 's independence
Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival launched a new award to coincide with the 75th independence anniversary of India.
The Young Indian Cultural Ambassadors Award (YICA) was launched during the festival - an exceptional celebration of Indian classical music and dance to commemorate the birth of the Singing Saint and composer Thyagaraja.
The festival is also the most popular annual festival of Indian classical music and dance held in the West Midlands, bringing artists, professionals and young music aspirants together from across the globe.
The festival was held under the patronage of UNESCO and ShruthiUK.
James Omer Bridge, FRSA, secretary-general and chief executive, UK National Commission for UNESCO said: “I am delighted that the 9th annual Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival (BTF) - an exceptional celebration of Indian classical music and dance to commemorate the birth of the Singing Saint and composer Thyagaraja, has the Patronage of the UK National Commission for UNESCO.
“This festival brings people together and in the words of UNESCO 's constitution, helps bring greater, “mutual understanding and a truer and more perfect knowledge of each other 's lives."
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said: “This cultural collaboration brings together the British Indian community from around the Midlands and the wider UK as well as supporting the strengthening of the longstanding links between Britain and India.
“I am pleased to take this opportunity to send my best wishes to Shruthi UK and the BTF Team for a successful Thyagaraja festival. ”
The festival like every year had an overwhelming response which turned to be a two- day festival featuring over 100 performances of Indian Classical music by professionals and young people from across continents showcasing their brilliant talents with great enthusiasm, to honour and pay homage to the Singing Saint Thyagaraja.
Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan FRSA, founder & artistic director, ShruthiUK, Curator, Birmingham said: “Festivals such as the BTF, further strengthens the cultural and economic links between India and the UK, making it culturally diverse and distinct.
“This gives us an opportunity to celebrate and showcase India 's unique cultural heritage through the Indian art forms with great respect and fervour globally.
“Curating the festival required a lot of coordination and planning and much emphasis was given to provide an opportunity for the youth to showcase their talents. The festival in the virtual platform enabled us successful partnerships and connect with key professionals and organisations from across the globe. ”