A.R. Rahman Launches Bharat Maestro Awards to Honor Indian Classical Music Legends
A.R. Rahman's KM Music Conservatory is launching the Bharat Maestro Awards to honor legends in Indian classical music and foster emerging talent. The initiative coincides with the conservatory's 16th anniversary and Rahman's birthday.
AR Rahman in closeup portrait
The awards program aims to bridge traditional and modern musical approaches while celebrating the teacher-student relationship in music. "The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students," Rahman explained, emphasizing that the awards will connect music's past, present, and future.
Award recipients will receive:
- Cash prize
- Global performance opportunities
- Chance to perform alongside A.R. Rahman
The distinguished mentor panel includes:
- Asha Bhosle
- Amjad Ali Khan
- Bombay Jayashri
- Ajoy Chakrabarty
The advisory board features notable names like Ila Paliwal, Sai Shravanam, Bharat Bala, Fathima Rafiq, Khatija Rahman, Adam Greig, and Clint Valladares.
KM Music Conservatory, established by Rahman, offers comprehensive programs in Western and Indian Classical music traditions, along with music technology education. The institution maintains international education standards while preserving India's musical heritage.
Through these awards, Rahman aims to create an ecosystem that supports immersive musical experiences and makes classical music more accessible to younger audiences.