By Sitaram Mewati
Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, honoured with the Padma Shri, was among several distinguished personalities felicitated with the Lifetime Achievement Award at a समारोह held in Mumbai on Friday (May 1). The awards were presented by Governor Jishnu Dev Varma.
Veteran playback singer Usha Mangeshkar, ghazal and playback singer Hariharan, actress Sushma Deshpande, senior journalist Rahee Bhide, and social workers Datta Bargaje and Sandhya Bargaje—known for their work in the care and rehabilitation of children affected by HIV/AIDS in Beed district—were also honoured on the occasion.
The ‘18th Newsmakers Achievers’ Awards ceremony, organised by Afternoon Voice, was attended by eminent personalities including renowned Bharatanatyam exponent Dr. Sandhya Purecha, actor and advertising professional Bharat Dabholkar, Editor of Afternoon Voice Dr. Vaidehi Taman, and the Governor’s Secretary Dr. Prashant Narnaware.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that honouring individuals who have excelled in diverse fields serves as an inspiration to society. He added that the contributions of all the Lifetime Achievement awardees are immensely significant.
Veteran playback singer Usha Mangeshkar felicitated by Governor
Responding to the honour, Kapoor shared his guiding principle that “home-cooked food is always the best.” He remarked, “Food prepared at home carries love, while food outside is driven by transaction.” On the occasion, Hariharan captivated the audience with a soulful rendition of the song ‘Tu Hi Re, Tere Bina Main Kaise Jiyun’.
The Governor noted that Maharashtra has long been a symbol of progressive thought, social reform, and cultural richness, inheriting a legacy from great leaders such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Jyotirao Phule, Savitribai Phule, and B. R. Ambedkar.
He further said that the state continues to lead the nation in industry, culture, governance, and social development. At a time when society faces multiple challenges, it is essential to uphold values such as integrity, service, and dedication, he said, adding that all those honoured are living examples of these ideals.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
