Mysuru: Art and music have the unique ability to calm the mind, inspire compassion, and unite humanity, said Karnataka governor-chancellor Thaawar Chand Gehlot.Addressing the 10th convocation of Karnataka State Dr Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University on Saturday, he said, “Art is not merely for performance; its true purpose is to nurture sensitivity and harmony in society,” he said. Quoting from the Vedas, he said, “Naadosmi Param Brahma”—sound is the ultimate divine force that awakens beauty, love, and compassion within people. Music, he added, softens the heart, purifies thoughts, and elevates the soul.In a rapidly changing digital world, artists play a vital role in bridging communication, fostering empathy, and preserving cultural unity. He urged students to draw strength from Indian traditions and folk arts, using their creative talents for public welfare and nation-building.India’s artistic heritage continues to thrive despite past anxieties about its future, said B Ananthakrishnan, vice-chancellor of Kalamandalam University, Kerala. He also called for recognising performing arts as a serious academic field that generates knowledge on par with science and social sciences.The golden girlsSravya A, Master of Performing Arts, won six gold medals (Bharatanatyam), which was the highest, while P Puneetha from Bachelor of Performing Arts won 5 gold medals (Vocal and Drama).Sravya from Kerala said, “I am delighted with this achievement, and I plan to pursue a doctorate. This was my childhood passion. I truly love this art form, its culture, and its traditions, and I am grateful to everyone who supported me.”Puneetha from Bengaluru said, “I am currently pursuing my MPA, and I have been involved in the performing arts since childhood. My interest in music began through radio, which greatly inspired and helped me grow.” Honorary doctoratesThe university presented honorary doctorates to theatre person H Janardhan (Janni), music exponent Prof BR Sheshadri Iyengar, and folklorist GM Shivaprasad (Gollahalli Shivaprasad). Seven scholars, Dr KV Nagaraja Murthy, Dr Shivakumar Kanasogi, Dr HK Sheela Sridhar, Dr KM Kumaraswamy, Dr Kempegowda, Dr Rashmi Prasad, and Dr Hasana Raghu, received D.Litt degrees, and five students, including toppers in MPA and BPA, received gold medals and cash rewards.
