Udaipur: An evening celebrating music, art and India's cultural heritage witnessed an extraordinary performance by internationally acclaimed musician and Padma Shri awardee Ricky Kej, who was conferred the Hindustan Zinc Srijan Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 for his outstanding contribution to music and the global arts fraternity.
The grand musical event was organised by international cultural organisation Srijan The Spark, in association with Bijay Kumar Surana Foundation and Hindustan Zinc Limited, at the DPS School Ground in Udaipur. The highlight of the evening was Kej's special presentation, The Earth Symphony, which captivated the audience with its powerful musical compositions and visual storytelling.
The three-time Grammy Award winner created a memorable experience through his distinctive musical style, blending Indian cultural influences with contemporary global sounds. His performance received an enthusiastic response from music lovers, who applauded the artist throughout the evening.
‘The Earth Symphony’ Highlights Environmental Responsibility
Kej's The Earth Symphony emerged as the central attraction of the programme, conveying a meaningful message about nature, environmental conservation and humanity's responsibility towards the planet.
Through a compelling combination of music and visual elements, the composition celebrated the beauty of nature while highlighting the importance of protecting the environment. The performance beautifully reflected the connection between nature, music and human emotions.
India's Diverse Folk Heritage Comes Alive
The musical presentation brought together the rich folk traditions of Rajasthan, Kashmir, Punjab and Bengal, offering the audience a vibrant glimpse of India's diverse cultural heritage.
Rajasthani favourites such as Kesariya Balam and Dharti Dhoran Ri filled the venue with the spirit of Rajasthan, while the energetic rendition of Dama Dam Mast Qalandar generated tremendous enthusiasm among spectators.
Kej also presented popular traditional compositions, including Jugni, Bumro Bumro, Sakal Ban and Bam Lahiri, in contemporary musical arrangements.
What made the performance particularly special was the way Kej retained the original character and cultural essence of these compositions while introducing modern arrangements, vibrant rhythms and energetic musical elements. The presentation seamlessly moved between folk, Sufi and contemporary musical expressions.
The changing musical patterns, impressive audio-visual effects and thoughtfully designed stage presentation transformed the evening into a memorable cultural experience. Through his performance, Kej demonstrated how India's traditional music can connect with contemporary audiences and gain wider recognition on international platforms.
Seven Eminent Personalities Conferred Srijan Awards
The ceremony also honoured seven distinguished personalities for their remarkable contributions to business, music, literature, education and the arts.
Pradeep Rathore, Chairman of Cello Group, received the Srijan Business Icon Award. Renowned violinist Deepak Pandit was presented the Srijan V.D. Paluskar Award, while noted poet and singer Dr Hariom received the Srijan Amir Khusro Award.
Educationist and art patron Sudhir Tiwari was honoured with the Srijan Omkarnath Thakur Award. Amit Agarwal, Vice-Chairman of JECRC University, received the Srijan Nandalal Bose Award.
Dr Ajay Murdia, promoter of Indira IVF and film producer, was conferred the Srijan Khemchand Prakash Award, while renowned singer and dental surgeon Dr Sameer Sharma received the Srijan Master Madan Award.
The awards were presented in the presence of Chief Patron and former IGP Prasanna Khamessara, Hindustan Zinc CEO Amarendu Prakash, Apex Chairman Rajesh Khamessara, President Rajendra Sharma, Rajendra Bhandari, Programme Chairman Bhupendra Shrimali, Hindustan Zinc CSR Head Anupam Nidhi and CHRO Munish Vasudev, among other dignitaries.
Srijan's Initiative to Promote Indian Art and Music
Speaking on the occasion, Srijan The Spark Chief Patron Prasanna Khamessara said the organisation has been consistently working towards preserving and promoting Indian classical music, ghazals, vocal and instrumental music, literature and various art forms.
He said its primary objective is to introduce India's rich cultural heritage to younger generations while providing local artists with opportunities to showcase their talent on national and international platforms.
The organisation is also working towards establishing a grand art and music academy in Udaipur to strengthen the city's cultural ecosystem and encourage emerging talent.
Inspire Srijan Bulletin Released
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Srijan The Spark President Rajendra Sharma. Raj Surana of Bijay Kumar Surana Foundation provided details about the event, while Shyam S. Singhvi welcomed the trustees.
Manju Sharma of Eternal Hospital, Jaipur, was felicitated by the organisation. She subsequently released the Inspire Srijan Bulletin along with other dignitaries.
Following the award ceremony, celebrated violinist Deepak Pandit presented a special performance that further enriched the musical evening.
Rajendra Bhandari delivered the vote of thanks. The programme was conducted by Brajendra Seth, while Shilpa Seth read out the award citations.