Vidhya Tapasvi Awards Given Away

CHENNAI: It was a moment to cherish for veena player R Parthasarthy and danseuse Narthaki Nataraj at the 6th Annual Vidhya Tapasvi Awards function, held at Tattvaloka Auditorium, Teynampet, recently. Both the artistes were conferred with the ‘Vidhya Tapasvi’ title, and veteran percussionist Vikku Vinayakram was present to bless the duo.

“It’s a pleasure receiving the award from the hands of such a great personality,” said Veena Parthasarathy, referring to Vinayakram who gave away the award to the artiste.

Nartaki Nataraj, who received the award from Narayana Vishwanath, music and dance critique, said, “I am really moved by the devotion and dedication shown by Ashwin Kumar Iyer (founder of TAPAS Cultural Foundation, which awards the title), and his wife Mahalakshmi Iyer. In both, I find a depth of bhakti and devotion to God.” She added, “As far as this title is concerned, it gives me a lot of fear and responsibility. I need to keep working hard to stand up to this title. Tapasvi means a lot to me and I’m really humbled today.”

Speaking on the occasion, Vinayakram recollected the days he had spent with Veena Parthasarathy. “Pacha’s (Parthasarathy) father and my father were friends. I’ve gone to his home many times when I was young. I’m happy to see him being awarded with this title today. He has come up really well, both in cinema and otherwise,” he said. “Narthaki Nataraj is a great performer and she surely deserves the award,” he added.

Narayana Vishwanath said, “I feel happy whenever I come to this institution. This is a typical institution that caters to the needs of the rasikas.”

He requested Ashwin to either advance or postpone The TAPAS Music and Dance Festival next year onwards, keeping in mind the poor turnout during Margazhi, and congratulated the awardees.