Bhubaneswar, May 17: Music has the unique ability to unite hearts, preserves timless traditions, heal minds and strengthen human values, while transcending barriers of language, religion, region and generation, said Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati while gracing the 103rd birth anniversary of veteran composer, music director, and vocalist, Pandit Balakrushna Dash on Saturday at Rabindra Mandap here.

The Governor said Dash successfully combined the depth of classical music with emotional accessibility, making Odissi music popular among the masses through cinema, radio and public performances.

Paying homage to his legacy, the Governor said, “His immense contribution to Odissi music continues to inspire generations and enrich Odisha's cultural heritage. Music truly unites hearts and preserves timeless traditions."

The Governor said, "Like a lamp that continues to spread light long after it is lit, his melodies continue to illuminate generations. His voice carried the fragments of our soil, the spirit of our traditions and the emotions of our people."

He also highlighted how Balakrushna Dash embraced innovation with wisdom and grace.

"At a time when modern influences were rapidly changing musical pace, he stood firmly rooted in Bodhisattva's identity while embracing innovation with wisdom and grace," he continued.

In an X post, the Governor shared multiple images from the event, where he could be honouring Pandit Dash and addressing the guest.

"Attended the 103rd birth anniversary of Sangeet Sudhakar Pandit Balakrushna Dash Ji at Rabindra Mandap, Bhubaneswar. His immense contribution to Odissi music continues to inspire generations and enrich Odisha's cultural heritage. Music truly unites hearts and preserves timeless traditions," he wrote.

For his eminence in the field of Music and his contribution to its enrichment, Balakrushna Dash even received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Odissi Music for 1984.