Pt Bhimsen Joshi awarded Bharat Ratna at home

Award handed over in simple ceremony in maestro's home; frail health kept him from travelling to New Delhi
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Pandit Bhimsen Joshi was yesterday awarded the nation's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna award by J E Ahmad, the upper chief secretary, Union Home Department, on behalf of President Pratibha Patil at his residence Kalashri at Navi Peth. And as per Joshi's wish, the ceremony was kept simple.



Earlier in the day, former prime minister Morarji Desai was also conferred the Bharat Ratna. "Panditji could not come to Delhi to receive the award due to his advanced age," Ahmad explained.
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Shrinivas Joshi, his son andu00a0 his elder brothers Jayant, Raghvendra and sister Shubhada Mulgund were present at the function. "It was the happiest movement of our lives to see the Bharat Ratna around my father's neck.
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We are proud of him for having devoted his life to promote vocal Indian classical music," said Shrinivas.

Anand Bhate and Upendra Bhat, disciples of Bhimsen Joshi were also invited for the function.

Maharashtra's Culture Minister Harshavardhan Patil announced an award for budding artistes in the field of Hindustani classical singing in Pt Joshi's name.

Divisional Commissioner Dilip Band and District Collector Chandra-kant Dalvi were also present at the occasion.
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Pandit Joshi turned 88 last Wednesday.