Udaipur: The long-cherished dream of “Srijan – The Spark” to establish a dedicated platform for nurturing musical talent took a major step forward with the foundation-laying ceremony of the Srijan Art and Music Academy, held on the Ambri-Debari Highway.
The ceremony was graced by several distinguished personalities including Pradeep Rathore, Chairman and MD of Sello Group (Chief Guest); renowned poet, writer, and actor Shailesh Lodha; Udaipur District Collector Namit Mehta; Manish Vasudev, VP of Hindustan Zinc Ltd.; retired IPS officer and chief patron of Srijan – The Spark, Prasanna Khamessara; politician Sunil Singhi; Udaipur Chapter President Rajendra Sharma; and Secretary Rajendra Bhandari.
In his address, Shailesh Lodha emphasized the enduring power of creativity in shaping culture. “Renaissance in this country came not through war, but through the pen and the arts,” he stated. He praised the dedication of Prasanna Khamessara, who, even while serving in the police force, continued to support and nurture the arts with passion—something rarely seen. “True respect for art doesn't come from trophies, but from heartfelt recognition,” Lodha added.
Pradeep Rathore, CEO and MD of Sello Group, congratulated the citizens of Udaipur on the upcoming cultural academy and extended his best wishes.
Prasanna Khamessara, in his address, shared the journey of the organization, which started with just 10 members 12 years ago and now boasts over 150. “Our mission has always been to promote Indian music and support local talent,” he said, crediting the collaborative spirit of all members.
Politician Sunil Singhi acknowledged the importance of Srijan’s work in elevating regional talent and expressed his wish to be associated with the organization. He also mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s own initiative to establish a music academy through the “Mann Mandir” institution on his own land, whose foundation was recently laid by the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
District Collector Namit Mehta lauded Prasanna Khamessara’s persistent efforts in preserving and promoting art and culture, noting that Udaipur is a city known for its art-loving community.
Manish Vasudev of Hindustan Zinc remarked that Srijan – The Spark is a beacon for cultural growth, playing a significant role in blending art and music in the region.
Former President and founding member Shyam S. Singhvi shared the vision and objectives of the academy, stating that the new institution would mark a historic chapter in the state’s cultural landscape. “The footprints we leave behind become paths for future generations,” he said, affirming that Srijan is fulfilling this very purpose.
At the beginning of the event, President Rajendra Sharma welcomed the guests and expressed confidence that the academy would serve as a model for other institutions across the country.
Guests including G.R. Lodha, Manik Nahar, Rajesh Khamessara, Bhupendra Shrimali, Abbas Ali Bandukwala, Brijesh Soni, Parmeshwar Agrawal, Dinesh Kataria, Anil Mehta, Karan Agrawal, and Hemant Bhagnani participated in the welcoming of dignitaries. The event concluded with the unveiling of the academy's foundation stone and the official logo of Srijan – The Spark.
Musical Evening on Monday
Srijan – The Spark will host a live musical concert by Bollywood singer and international artist Kiran Sachdev on Monday at 6:15 PM at the DPS School Auditorium. Entry will be through invitation cards only.