Shree Muktajeevan Pipe Band performs at Gujarat Gaurav Awards

Mumbai, Jan 6 (UNI) Shree Muktajeevan Pipe Band travelled all the way from London, to salute respected (Acharya) Swamishree Purushottampriyadasji Maharaj and chief guests and play devotional music at the 22nd 'Gujarat Gaurav Awards 2007', held here at Islamic Gymkhana.

Over a thousand eminent Gujaratis assembled for the award function, organised by Bruhad Mumbai Gujarati Samaj, last night.

The Band led Acharya Swamishree Maharaj to 50 metres on the stage, whilst playing classical Hindi tunes on their bagpipes.

The Band of 14 members, consisting of professionals from all walks of life, was led by its Drum Major, Narhari Khimani.

The event commenced with the Band saluting Acharya Swamishree Maharaj in the same manner as Queen Elizabeth II of England was saluted by the Band during her golden jubilee celebrations in London.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister cum Home Minister R R Patil, Maharashtra State Minister Ramesh Sandke, former Assembly Speaker Arunbhai Gujrathi, Bruhad Mumbai President and Managing Trustee Hemrajbhai Shah and other dignitaries presented the 'Gujarat Gaurav Award 2007' to Acharya Swamishree Maharaj.

On the sidelines of the event, Mr Khimani told UNI that over the years the Band has performed at many events and parades around the world. These include the Queen's golden jubilee celebrations, the Lord Mayor of London's parade and the New Year parade in Paris.

Charity events held throughout Europe have also benefited from the presence of the band, he said.

The band has forged a close relationship with the organisation, Youth Music of the World, which organises and arranges performances world wide including New Year parades in UK, France, Holland and United States of America.

Despite being accomplished professionals, all members keenly offer their services to the band without any wish for pay or redemption for their time and effort, Mr Khimani added.

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