Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has termed classical music as a powerful medium to connect people with divinity and cultural roots. Addressing the gathering on the second day of the 150th Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan at Jalandhar yesterday, Mr Kataria said he is privileged to be part of the landmark 150th edition of this world-renowned classical extravaganza. He noted that the year holds special significance as it marks 150 years of the Vande Mataram National song and the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as well.

Highlighting the role of music in India’s freedom struggle, the Governor said that patriotic compositions played a vital role in awakening mass consciousness and strengthening the struggle for independence. He described the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan as a catalyst for taking India’s rich musical and cultural heritage to every corner of the world.

Former Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, while advocating building a Harivallabh Sangeet Mahavidyalaya for nurturing budding musical talent in the region, said that conservation and uplift of the musical heritage of the over a century old Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan is a necessity to protect the versatile musical legacy of Punjab and its gharanas. He also called for building an auditorium to host future Harivallabh sammelans. Today is the last day of the three-day annual classical music event.