Bhubaneswar: "Music serves as a universal medium that bridges divides, exemplified by the life and contributions of Sangeet Sudhakar Balakrushna Dash," remarked Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati during the 2025 Annual Function of the Sangeet Sudhakar Balakrushna Dash Foundation, which celebrated the 102nd birth anniversary of the esteemed musician on Monday.

The Governor characterized the event as a heartfelt homage to a luminary of Odissi music and a celebration of Odisha's vibrant cultural heritage. He reflected on Balakrushna Dash's extraordinary journey, which began with his early performances of Odissi classical and devotional music, leading to his influential role in popularizing Odissi music via radio.

Dr. Kambhampati highlighted Dash's extensive training under esteemed mentors like Gokhul Srichandan and Khitish Chandra Maitra, along with his significant collaborations with renowned artists such as Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan in Kolkata. He underscored Dash's enduring influence on Odissi music through his expressive compositions and engaging radio shows.

The Governor reminisced about Dash's iconic choreography of the beloved state anthem, "Bande Utkal Janani," and praised his substantial contributions to Odia cinema, where he composed music for over 25 films that harmoniously fused classical and folk elements.

Dr. Kambhampati acknowledged Dash's commitment as an educator at Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya and commended the ongoing efforts of his students in safeguarding Odisha's musical heritage. He lauded the Foundation's initiatives in promoting Odissi music, supporting artists, and nurturing emerging talent.

The Governor encouraged all attendees to renew their dedication to the values, creativity, and cultural appreciation that characterized Balakrushna Dash's life and legacy.

During the event, the esteemed Indian flautist and celebrated Hindustani classical musician Padma Vibhushan Hari Prasad Chaurasia received the Sangeet Sudhakar Balakrushna Dash Smaraki Samman 2025 from the Governor, along with several other awards.

Other notable speakers included Lalit Das, Chairman of the Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission; Soumendra Priyadarshi, CMD of OPHWC; Bibhu Prasad Mishra, Executive Vice-President of JSPL; and Guru Ramhari Das, Secretary of the Sangeet Sudhakar Balakrushna Dash Foundation. The Foundation's President, Manoranjan Panigrahi, delivered the welcome address.