The Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards 2026 honoured legendary Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj posthumously and renowned flautist Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia for their exceptional contribution to Indian classical music tradition and cultural heritage preservation. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
Instituted to recognise excellence in classical music, the Sur Jyotsna Awards highlight lifetime achievements in Hindustani and Carnatic traditions, promoting India’s intangible cultural heritage and inspiring younger generations of musicians across the country.
Pandit Jasraj was a leading exponent of the Mewati Gharana, known for devotional renditions and globalising Hindustani music. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna-level honours like Padma Vibhushan, reflecting his towering influence.
Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia revolutionised flute playing in Indian classical music and collaborated internationally, earning Padma Vibhushan and global recognition for expanding the reach of Indian ragas.
The awards emphasise preservation of guru-shishya parampara, a traditional system of musical transmission, which remains central to sustaining India’s classical art forms amid modernisation and cultural shifts.
Such recognitions also align with India’s broader cultural diplomacy, where classical music plays a key role in soft power projection, strengthening global appreciation of Indian heritage through festivals, performances and institutional honours.
Important Current Affairs Questions for UPSC CDS NDA and AFCAT Written Exam
Q1. The Sur Jyotsna Awards are primarily associated with which field?
A. Literature
B. Classical Music
C. Cinema
D. Folk Dance
Answer: B
Explanation: These awards recognise excellence and lifetime contribution in Indian classical music traditions.
Q2. Pandit Jasraj belonged to which gharana of Hindustani music?
A. Gwalior Gharana
B. Patiala Gharana
C. Mewati Gharana
D. Kirana Gharana
Answer: C
Explanation: Pandit Jasraj was a leading exponent of the Mewati Gharana known for devotional style.
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Also Read: Important NCERT Notes for UPSC CDS NDA CAPF AC and AFCAT Written Exam
