Lifestyle

Kolkata: Rotary honours Padmashri 2026 awardee Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya

by Trans World Features | @twfindia 17 Feb 2026, 04:23 am

In a moment resonating with both musical brilliance and humanitarian pride, the Rotary District Public Image Committee, under the leadership of Chairman Subhojit Roy, felicitated Santoor Maestro Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya on being conferred the Padmashri 2026 — India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.

The grand felicitation ceremony was held at the iconic Kolkata Press Club, which also independently honoured the maestro in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Indian classical music and social service.

A distinguished disciple of Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankar, Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya is a celebrated exponent of the Santoor from the revered Maihar Gharana. Over a glorious career spanning more than four decades, he has elevated Hindustani classical music onto the global stage. His pioneering innovation of the “Menkas” for the Santoor has further refined and expanded the instrument’s tonal possibilities.

Recipient of prestigious honours including the Tansen Award and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the maestro’s journey is one of relentless dedication, innovation, and artistic excellence.

Beyond the concert stage, Pandit Bhattacharya has been a passionate humanitarian. As Rotary’s global ambassador for the Polio Eradication Programme, he has actively championed public health initiatives worldwide.

He now lends his voice and music to promote Thalassaemia awareness. Through numerous fundraising concerts, he has supported life-saving initiatives including eye and heart surgeries, education for the underprivileged, and treatment for Thalassaemia patients.

Expressing his joy on the occasion, Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya said,

“I am elated and excited as Rotary stimulates me to positively impact society with humanitarian initiatives like Polio Eradication and Thalassaemia Awareness.”

District Public Image Chairman Subhojit Roy, on behalf of Rotary, recounted the maestro’s immense contribution toward humanitarian causes. He emphasized that apart from his unparalleled musical excellence, Pandit Bhattacharya has consistently stood out as a celebrity who uses his stature to espouse charity and social responsibility.

The evening was marked by warmth, respect, and collective admiration — a fitting tribute to a legend whose music heals, inspires, and uplifts.