Chennai: Veteran Ghatam maestro Vikku Vinayakram was honoured with Special Life Time Achievement Award by The Music Academy here on Wednesday.
Legendary flutist Hariprasad Chaurasia presented the award and medal to Vinayakram. In his address, Hariprasad said, “Vinayakaram is a great musician and I have been listening to his works for a very long time. He inspires everybody and not just me. I pray that Vinayakaram gets more recognition.”
The Music Academy president N Murali in his address praised Vinayakram’s talent. “He has performed across the globe and has enthralled the world with his compositions. Vinayakaram’s music often has a theme that evokes reverence to his gurus. The Music Academy is delighted to honour this maestro.”
He also said Vinayakram is the third musician to receive the award from The Music Academy. In his acceptance speech, Vinayakram said, “I never expected that I will ever receive this award. I can’t forget this moment. I have been blessed to work along with several renowned musicians. I would like to thank all my friends who have helped me.”
Later, Vinayakram performed along with his band of ghatam composers. It may be noted that Vinayakram has performed with MS Subhalakhsmi at the United Nations Office. His is also famous for winning the Grammy Award in 1991.