The 13th edition of the Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards was held on Friday in New Delhi, honoring veteran Hindustani vocalists Sumitra Guha and Pandit Laxman Krishnarao Pandit for their significant contributions to Indian classical music. Instituted in memory of Jyotsna Darda, founder of Lokmat Sakhi Manch, these awards recognize excellence in music and aim to encourage emerging talent through various vocal and instrumental categories. The ceremony took place at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, featuring performances by singer Kailash Kher and his band, Kailasa Live. The awards were presented by Justice Sandeep Mehta, a Supreme Court judge, and attended by notable figures including Union ministers and former chief ministers. During the event, Vijay Darda, chairman of Lokmat Media Group, emphasized the spiritual connection of music and its ability to bring peace. This year, the awards were celebrated across nine cities including Nagpur, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, aiming to reach wider audiences and celebrate diverse musical traditions.