Sonu Nigam Honoured With National Lata Mangeshkar Award In Indore

Renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam was felicitated with the National Lata Mangeshkar Award on Sunday for his exceptional contribution to light music. The honour was presented by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav at a ceremony marking the legendary singer’s 96th birth anniversary in her hometown.

Paying tribute to the late icon, CM Yadav said, “Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar took Indian music to new heights with her voice. This award, in her name, is a tribute to artists whose work has left an indelible mark on the world of music.”

An emotional Nigam, 52, recalled performing on the same stage nearly three decades ago during the Lata Mangeshkar Alankaran ceremony. “Lata ji is not only an inspiration but also a living tradition of music. To receive this honour in her birthplace is one of the most special moments of my life,” he said, before singing a few songs for the audience.

Instituted in 1984 by the state’s Culture Department, the award has previously been bestowed upon legends such as Naushad, Kishore Kumar, and Asha Bhosle.

The evening also featured a musical performance by playback singer Ankit Tiwari and his troupe. Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister paid floral tributes at Mangeshkar’s statue and inaugurated a photo exhibition titled ‘Chitra Latika’, chronicling her life and legacy.

The event was attended by several dignitaries including ministers Kailash Vijayvargiya and Tulsiram Silawat, Indore MP Shankar Lalwani, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, and other legislators.

Born on September 28, 1929, in Indore, Lata Mangeshkar passed away in Mumbai on February 6, 2022, at the age of 92.