Limca Book of Records unveils Music Special, felicitates 10 Indian Music Maestros; Celebrates 23rd anniversary

Commemorating 23 glorious years of the Limca Book of Records, Coca-Cola India today launched the Limca Book of Records 2012 - "Music Special'. The all-new edition catalogues a special music section acknowledging the extraordinary achievements of 10 Indians musicians as "People of the Year' chosen by an independent panel led by Member of Parliament, HK Dua and renowned flautist, GS Rajan.

The 23rd edition of the record book was launched at a special event by Pandit Ravi Shankar, legendary sitar maestro, along with Ahmet C Bozer, President, Eurasia and Africa Group, The Coca-Cola Company, Atul Singh, President & CEO, Coca-Cola India & South West Asia, and Vijaya Ghose, Editor, Limca Book of Records .

Speaking at the launch event, the Chief Guest and world renowned sitar maestro, Pandit Ravi Shankar said, "I congratulate Limca Book of Records for completing 23 years of showcasing India's best. By bringing out the 23rd edition as a music special and honoring some of the country's most acclaimed artists, the book will inspire many more people to take up music. Music runs in the veins of every individual, and it is the thread that binds us all together. I am humbled to have been chosen to felicitate these great musicians on behalf of the Limca Book of Records for their outstanding contribution to the world of music. I thank Limca Book of Records for dedicating this edition to music, and spreading the message of India's rich musical heritage."

Applauding the unparalleled contribution of the music maestros to the field of music, Ahmet C. Bozer, President, Eurasia and Africa Group, The Coca-Cola Company said, " Limca Book of Records is a truly remarkable platform that, every year, brings to fore astounding achievements by Indians across various fields. But like most of our brands and trademarks, its owners are the millions of people and not the Company. The value that people attach to this record book is unparalleled and that is what keeps us honest and motivated. I am privileged to share this platform with such luminaries of Indian music and on behalf of the Company I thank them for being here with us today."

With 20 refreshing and informative chapters, the 2012 edition of the record book celebrates over 10,000 remarkable achievements out of which 6,000 are new records, all showcasing extraordinary feats of Indians across the globe.

According to Atul Singh, President & CEO, Coca-Cola India & South West Asia, "Limca Book of Records is now an iconic platform to showcase the special talents of unknown, unheard and unsung Indian heroes. It has been the consistent endeavor of the team behind the Limca Book of Records to scout for and include unique records that would never have otherwise seen the light of day. The book truly catalogues India at her best and provides us with the opportunity to acknowledge and applaud these inspiring efforts."

Speaking about the 23rd Edition of the Record Book, Vijaya Ghose, Editor, Limca Book of Records said, "The Limca Book of Records has, since its inception in 1990, been a book with the aim to seek out, encourage and applaud efforts of Indians surprising the world with their treasure trove of talent. In its 23rd year, Limca Book of Records salutes Indian maestros from the field of Music, thus continuing its endeavor of encouraging talent and achievements par excellence. The Limca Book of Records is proud to pick up these10 talented musicians to honor and applaud".

Quotes from Limca Book of Records "People of the Year' 2012:

Asha Bhosle: "I am honored to be sharing this platform with such an illustrious set of musical stalwarts, and also for being included in the Limca Book of Records with so many inspiring Indian achievers from all over India. I am very happy that this year, LBR is acknowledging the efforts of musicians. This gesture is very motivating for every individual to showcase their talent."

Ustad Zakir Hussain: "I am humbled by this recognition. The Limca Book of Records is a one-of-a kind book of achievements and to be a part of this is, indeed, a great honour. I am hoping that this Music Special inspires more and more people to take to music as an art and further enrich our culture and tradition."

Teejan Bai: "I thank Limca Book of Records for bestowing this honour upon me and for dedicating this year's edition to Indian music. The fact that I am sharing the stage with such illustrious and popular artists will continue to motivate me and further popularize Pandavaani."

Dr. Yesudas: "I compliment Limca Book of Records for completing 23 glorious years. It is amazing to see the record book becoming an institution in itself by encouraging every Indian from different sector to do their best in their respective fields. This felicitation is indeed special and I would like to thank the team of Limca Book of Records for conferring the honor on me."

Dr. L Subramaniam: "I thank the Limca Book of Records for showcasing the success of Indian music and for honoring me on this platform. I also want to acknowledge the presence of Pt. Ravishankar Ji who has travelled an enormous distance to be with us today."

Shubha Mudgal: "Indian music is as diverse as the land itself, and for me, it is a matter of great pride that the Limca Book of Records has acknowledged my humble efforts in this special edition."