Dr. Krishan Lal Sehgal: The Maestro of Himachali Folk Music..

SHIMLA: Dr. Krishan Lal Sehgal has become the first Himachali to be honored with the prestigious Top Grade by All India Radio (AIR) in folk music. AIR New Delhi has recognized his significant contributions to Himachali folk music with this title.

The Top Grade is awarded exclusively to distinguished artists and is considered a significant honor in the tradition of music.

Recently, at a notable event in New Delhi called "Lokratna," organized by AIR Delhi, Dr. Sehgal received a certificate of honor for his exceptional contributions to Himachali folk music.

He is the first artist from Himachal Pradesh to receive such a high accolade from AIR since the station's establishment in 1955.

Dr. Sehgal, who has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Himachali folk music, achieved the highest grade in AIR’s folk music category in 1971. His music has been featured not only on AIR but also in various music festivals and broadcasts across the country.

His folk songs have gained popularity beyond Himachal Pradesh, including regions like Delhi, Jammu, Kashmir, and Kurukshetra.

For his remarkable contributions, the AIR Shimla station has recognized him multiple times, in 1998 and 2013. Additionally, the Himachal Pradesh government honored him with the Himachal Gaurav Award.

His efforts in folk music have also earned him accolades from the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Dr. Sehgal is also a distinguished vocalist in classical singing, although his special focus has been on preserving and popularizing Himachali folk music. His dedication to this cause has brought special recognition to Himachali culture and traditions.