Priyadarshini receives “Versatile Playback Singer Award” at Star Icon of India Awards 2024
Globally acclaimed vocalist Dr. Priyadarshini was recently honoured with the prestigious “Versatile Playback Singer Award 2024” at the 8th Star Icon of India Awards “Kalaam Nambikkai Virudhugal” ceremony, held at Chennai’s Muthamizh Peravai Auditorium. The event was organized in collaboration with Jayden Productions.
A talented vocalist from Singapore, Priyadarshini began her music career with a duet alongside renowned playback singer Hariharan. Her remarkable versatility and soulful voice have earned her recognition in the Indian film industry, particularly within South Indian cinema. She has contributed vocals to numerous well-known regional songs and movie soundtracks.
Priyadarshini also made history by becoming the first playback singer to receive a Ph.D. for her 100 years of film music studies, setting a new standard in the intersection of art and academia.
Award Presentation and Acceptance
The award was presented to Priyadarshini by Thilagabama, a politician, poet, and writer. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Priyadarshini drew inspiration from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s message of overcoming challenges and embracing achievements. She captivated the audience with a song from her upcoming film featuring actress Andrea.
The event saw the attendance of notable personalities such as poet and writer Amirtham Surya, Commissioner of Income Tax Nandakumar, actor and writer Jayapalan, music composer Mahesh Mahadev, cookbook author Mallika Badrinath, and others. The ceremony, which celebrated achievements across fields like sports, music, education, social work, women’s empowerment, and arts, was organized by Jennifer under the “Kalaam Nambikkai Virudhugal” banner.
Priyadarshini’s Future Projects and Work
Reflecting on the award, Priyadarshini shared, “This award brings me immense joy and motivates me to continue striving for excellence.” She expressed her passion for international music projects and her ongoing ambition to contribute meaningfully to the world of music.
She also shared exciting upcoming releases, including a duet with Sonu Nigam for the Telugu movie Prema Lekapothe and the Kannada movie Rhythm, both with music by A.T. Ravish. Additionally, she has sung a solo in the Kannada films Vishesha and Kunjara, with music by M N Krupakar.
Apart from playback singing, Priyadarshini is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. She conducts masterclasses at her music foundation, “PRISM,” and runs a recording studio where she explores different vocal styles and techniques. She is also working on a book about film music, which she looks forward to sharing with the world.