Pune, Feb 13 (PTI) Melody queen Lata Mangeshkar was honoured with the first 'Swarbhaskar' award, instituted in memory of Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, by well known Kathak dancer Sitara Devi here today.
"Classical music maestro Pandit Bhimsen Joshi has done a great work for Indian classical music. It's my honour to receive Swarbhaskar award. We could not forget his legendary contribution to Indian classical music," Lata Mangeshakar said on the occasion.
The award instituted by Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) carries a prize of Rs 1,11,161, a memento and citation.
Mayor Mohansingh Rajpal, state forest minister Patangrao Kadam were present at the function.