(31 August 2005 2:00 pm)

MUMABI: The melody queen Lata Mangeshkar has been conferred the Legend Honour at the Sahara One Sangeet Awards 2005. Jaya Bachchan presented the award to Mangeshkar.

Simultaneously, at the occasion, Sahara One Sangeet Awards trophy adorned with gold and studded with precious stones was revealed. The trophy has been crafted by D'damas.

The felicitation ceremony was attended by the nominees of Sahara One Sangeet Awards 2005, along with stalwarts of the music and film industry at J WT Marriort, Mumbai.

Percept D' Mark (PDM) MD and CEO Sanjay Lal said, "Lataji's reign over the world of playback singing is undisputed. She has lent her voice to heroines across three generations from Madhubala to Sridevi to Preity Zinta. She is indeed a true living legend and undeniably the supreme voice of Indian music."

Speaking on behalf of the jury, the director blockbuster Sholay Ramesh Sippy said "Lataji is the ideal exponent of everything to do with music. Her talent transcends time. She can convey every emotion through her voice. In Indian film music, there cannot be anything greater than her and her contribution to India's musical heritage is irrefutable."

Lata Mangeshkar who started her singing career with Marathi films like Majhe Baal, Pahili Mangalagaur and Gaja Bhau, later shifted to the Hindi film industry. The Nightingale of India has reigned supreme throughout her career spanning over six decades.

The international partner, US based Mehta Entertainment CEO Deepak Mehta says, "At this august occasion, I am experiencing mixed emotions- I am absolutely delighted that Lata ji has accepted the Legend Honour, but at the same time I regret that we have missed the privilege to play host to the precious jewel of Indian music. We will truly miss Lataji at the awards function in the US."

The second Sahara One Sangeet Awards will be held on 24 September 2005 in Oakland, California in the US. The media release also adds that over 120 members from the Indian film and music fraternity will be present at the occasion.

The awards will air on Sahara One Television. PDM, have partnered with industry experts such as Sohail Khan Entertainment, Morani and Soorma of Cineyug Entertainment and Showcraft Productions.