Saturday, 4th March was a special day for Nritya Geethanjali. Swar Sadhna Samiti is the Kala Kendra of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, one of the most respected institutions of Mumbai. Dr. Smt. Aban E. Mistry, Founder-Patron of Swar Sadhna Samiti and the Managing Committee conferred on Guru Rajee, the prestigious title, Swar Sadhna Ratna, for her immense contribution in the field of classical music and dance.

Other maestros and musicians from all over India were also honoured. We witnessed special performances by Pt. Satyanarayan Sharma, violin, from Jaipur and Goswami Shri Rasikraiji Maharaj, harmonium, from Rajkot.

[ In the center is Dr. Aban Mistry flanked by the artistes who were awarded by the Swar Sadhna Samiti ]

In a simple, dignified ceremony, Guru Rajee was honoured and felicitated by Smt. Aban Mistry, whose genuine love for all art forms and the artistes was evident. A well-known tabla exponent and guru herself, she surrounds herself with artistes and patrons of art, with constant inter-action and the desire to propagate Indian fine arts. She expressed her gratification at having Guru Rajee accept the award and hoped to have many more opportunities to interact with her. She invited Guruji to a special lunch the following day, for all the artistes of Swar Sadhna.

Titles and awards are inadequate to express the honour and recognition. The love and respect that Guru Rajee receives from performing artistes and students alike, is truly unique and greatly cherished.

- Jaishree Rao