Varanasi, Nov 03 (HS): Union Finance Minister Nirmala

Sitharaman on Tuesday released a commemorative coin of Rs 250 to mark the 250th

birth anniversary of legendary Carnatic classical musician Muthuswami Dikshitar

at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Organised by the Centre of Excellence in

Indian Knowledge Traditions (CoE-IKS) of IIT BHU at the Swatantrata Bhawan

auditorium of BHU, the Finance Minister inaugurated the event by lighting a

lamp along with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ajit Kumar

Chaturvedi.

On this occasion, the Finance Minister recalled the life of

Muthuswami Dikshitar, his musical pursuits, and his incomparable contribution

to Indian classical music. Born in 1775, Dikshitar is considered one of the

great trinity of Carnatic music's leading composers. Along with Tyagaraja and

Shyama Shastri, he is considered one of the three great pillars of Carnatic

music.

Muthuswami Dikshitar's compositions showcase a unique range

of ragas. His works deeply depict temples, deities, and Indian spiritual and religious

traditions. As a composer, singer, and veena player, he enriched Carnatic

classical music with his timeless compositions. His musical legacy remains an

important asset to Indian cultural tradition.

Professor Rajesh Shah, former head of the Faculty of Music

and Performing Arts at BHU, said, Muttuswami Dikshitar was a highly

respected musician of Indian classical music. With his extraordinary talent and

creativity, he took Carnatic music to new heights. Along with those of

Tyagaraja and Shyama Shastri, his compositions continue to inspire the music

world.

At the ceremony, numismatist Sudhir Lunawat explained the

features of the commemorative coin. He explained that this 250 rupee coin will

weigh 35 grams and is made from a mixture of four metals: 50 percent silver, 40

percent copper, and five percent each of nickel and zinc. He clarified that

this coin is not issued for general circulation, but rather as a special

commemorative piece to commemorate the 250th birth anniversary of the great

musician.

The main objective of the programme was to convey the

personality, works, musical heritage and contribution of Muthuswami Dikshitar

to the new generation and to honour the rich heritage of Indian knowledge

tradition.

Earlier, upon her arrival at Lal Bahadur Shastri

International Airport in Babatpur, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

was welcomed by BJP leaders. Among those present were Shailesh Pandey, State

Minister of the BJP Kisan Morcha and the party's protocol in-charge, and other

leaders.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi