Mumbai: The Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Festival 2024, a significant cultural event organised by the Shanmukhananda fine arts Sangeetha Sabha commenced here on December 7.

The festival opened with a mesmerising musical evening by the renowned violinist L Subramaniam and his children, following his reception of the prestigious 25th Shanmukhananda National Eminence Award at the Sabha in King’s Circle. The award was accompanied by a citation, a Shawl, and a brass lamp, symbolising the cultural richness of the event.

Continuing the celebration of talent, the Sabha also bestowed the esteemed Shanmukha Shiromani awards upon  Ashwath Narayan (Carnatic vocal), J.A. Jayant (flute), and Armaan Khan (Hindustani vocal), recognising their exceptional contributions to the world of music.

On Sunday, the Kanchi Jagadguru Sri Jayendra Saraswati National Eminence Award for Fine Arts was awarded to classical violin duo Mysore brothers M Nagaraj and M Manjunath. The honour carries a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh, including a brass lamp and citation, said the Sabha president, Dr. V. Shankar.

During the festival, the Sabha also organised Mahaswami Sangeetanjali, a musical tribute to the legacy of Sri Kanchi Mahaswami, and Mahaswami Aradhana Pancharatna Haaram, a devotional offering of five musical compositions in his honour.