MUMBAI: Music company Saregama and academy of performing arts Sangeet Natak Akademi have formed an association to re-establish the popularity of the works of legendry artistes that have been preserved by the Akademi.

Saregama unveiled the first six audio CD's that have been compiled from the archives of the Akademi and comprises the works of legendary musicians like Ustad Bismillah Khan, Ustad Amir Khan and Ustad Ahmed Jaan Thirakhwa, along with rare recordings on the musical instruments of India.

Talking about the association, Sangeet Natak Akademi chairman Mirdha said, "Classical Indian music has never before in history enjoyed the kind of pre-eminence that it has in the last six decades. Indian instruments have taken the meditative soul of Raga Music to the Globe.

This pioneering initiative by Sangeet Natak Akademi and Saregama towards reviving the vast archives of traditional Indian music is truly a giant leap to invoke the interest of the present generation in the vast heritage that our country beholds."

Speaking on the occasion Kansal said, "the rich archives of the Sangeet Natak Akademi deserve to be accessible to music fans across the world. Not only do the archives comprise of works of music legends but also house an integral part of India's rich traditional heritage - Hindustani instrumental music that will be immensely appreciated by the fans of this genre."

Sangeet Natak Akademi Secretary Jayant Kastuar, "expressed hope about a long term and fruitful association with Saregama India Ltd."

The evening ended with a glimpse of classical heritage music with enthralling performances by Alauddin Khan (Esraj), Rajendra Prasanna (Shehnai & Flute) and Amjad Chowdhary (Tabla).

Present at the event were Sangeet Natak Akademi Chairman Ram Niwas Mirdha, Saregama India Ltd GM (North) Mukul Kansal, Sangeet Natak Akademi Vice-Chairman Pannicker and Sangeet Natak Akademi Secretary Jayant Kastuar.