New Delhi, June 23 -- Renowned Carnatic vocalist Ranjani has expressed gratitude after she and her sister, fellow vocalist Gayatri Balasubramanian, were conferred the Padma Shri, calling the prestigious civilian honour a significant milestone in their nearly four-decade-long musical journey.

Speaking to ANI after receiving the award, Ranjani said, "We are really very grateful to receive the Padma Shri award. I think the Padma Shri is really a great achievement for us."

Elaborating on the recognition, she added, "We are South Indian classical musicians and we have been performing for nearly 40 years and we are really grateful to receive the Padma Shri award. I think this honour is really a great milestone for us for our contribution to t...