KATHMANDU:

On the occasion of 18th death anniversary of Swor Samrat Narayan Gopal, the Narayan Gopal Music Trust organised a programme at Narayan Gopal Gurbacharya’s residence on December 4.

Sitar maestro Narendra Bataju was honoured for his contributions to contemporary music of Nepal. Bataju was not just a colleague but a very good friend of Swor Samrat. Bataju was honoured as the Sitar Samrat by the trust and was presented with a certificate and cash prize of Rs 25,000.

As Bataju is currently residing in Paris, Dr Banira Giri, general secretary of the trust, who recently had spoken to Bataju about the honour spoke Bataju’s behalf. Qutoing him Dr Giri said, “I don’t care about how much money I am receiving through this honour, but Nepali artistes and music lovers have given me so much love and respect which is so important for me.” He also donated the amount he had received to the trust itself.

At the same occasion, the first ever official site dedicated to Narayan Gopal was unveiled allowing his fans from all over the world to know more about the artiste (www.narayangopal.org).

Sailesh Singh, who had won the first prize during the national competition of contemporary singing organised by Narayan Gopal Music Trust in 2000, released his new album Sandhi at the event. — HNS