Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji
Panaji, Jun 25: Goa’s rich cultural legacy found its voice on Tuesday as renowned vocalist Ajit Kadkade was conferred with the prestigious Gomant Vibhushan Award by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, in recognition of his decades-long contribution to Indian classical and devotional music.
Speaking at the felicitation event held in Panaji, Chief Minister Sawant highlighted Goa's unique status as the only state in the country that offers structured musical education—including vocal and instrumental training—at the high school level. He hailed Kadkade as a symbol of artistic dedication and urged the youth to draw inspiration from his life and musical journey.
“Goa is home to natural-born artists. We live between the sea and the Sahyadri hills—it gives us rhythm and soul,” the Chief Minister remarked. “Ajit Kadkade has brought immense pride to Goa. His ability to sing fluently in three languages besides Konkani is truly commendable,” he added.
Accepting the award, an emotional Kadkade reflected on the early days of his musical journey. “This award is not mine alone. It belongs to Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki, who mentored me, to my family, and to all those who shaped me both spiritually and musically,” he said.
He fondly recalled his father’s doubts about music as a livelihood, and his guru’s honest response: “Only if people like your music.” Kadkade said this simple truth has guided him throughout his over 55-year career.
“Though Goa is my birthplace, it was Maharashtra that gave wings to my music,” Kadkade said, acknowledging the role of Mumbai and Pune’s music circles in nurturing his talent.
He also paid tribute to Pt. Abhisheki’s values of discipline and humility. “Guruji would always arrive before time for a performance. That’s something I do to this day.”
CM Sawant further emphasized the state’s commitment to not just physical infrastructure, but also cultural and artistic development. Institutions like Kala Academy, Ravindra Bhavan, and Bal Bhavan are actively nurturing young talent in fields such as music, Rangoli art, and sculpture-making, he said.
“We are honouring everyone who has worked for the Konkani language, be it from Goa or even Kerala. Our respect extends globally to performers of Goan art, like those staging Dalgado Tiatr outside India,” Sawant noted.
As Ajit Kadkade’s soulful journey was celebrated, the event stood as a reminder that Goa's heritage is not just in its sands and shores, but also in its songs and stories.