Indian High Commissioner Shiv Shankar Mukherjee and classical singer Balamurli Krishna have been appointed Patrons of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, UK, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the society.
Manick Dalal, Chairman of the Bhavan, made the announcement in this regard at a function here last night, to celebrate the 61st Independence Day of India. 78-year-old Balamurali Krishna has been a poet composer, singer, musicologist and preserver of the musical heritage.
He represents a new era in Carnatic music and is a multi-faceted personality. He was conferred Padma Vibhushan award by the Government of India.
Addressing the packed gathering Mukherjee, who was the chief guest, described Balamurali Krishna as one of the greatest living exponent of Carnatic music.
Lauding India's achievements in the last six decades, the High Commissioner said "the greatest contribution of our founding fathers was the institutions they gave us to make us what we are today.
"It is the democracy, open society, the elected legislature and the fiercely independent judiciary, rule of law and secularism enshrined in the Constitution which make us what we are."
"The current IT revolution is a product of the vision of the founding fathers who laid emphasis on education and we look ahead today with confidence more than every before," he said.
Lord Bagri, SP Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group and Joginder Sangar, Chairman of the Mayfair Hotel and a philanthropist were among those present on the occasion.