HYDERABAD: Andhra Pradesh Department of Culture in league the President of the Federation of Indian association (Illinois) Iftekhar Shareef felicitated Adnan Sami, one of the world's fastest Piano players recently in Hyderabad.

The renowned singer, music director, actor and producer Adnan Sami, was presented with the "Naushad Music Award" on the occasion of 89th birth anniversary celebrations of the late maestro at Lalitha Kala Thoram, Public Gardens, Hyderabad, Iftekhar Shareef introduced Adnan Sami giving a detailed sketch of his achievements in the field of music and his dexterity both in playing instruments and singing.

He praised him as a good and humble human being and recalled his achievements as a child prodigy.Speaking on the occasion Union Minister of State for Mines, Govt. Of India T. Subbi Ram Reddy expressed his happiness in seeing even children of three years coming and taking Adnan's autograph and photographs and said that only music has the capacity to reach people of all ages, nations and religions.

He announced his full support for putting a statue of Naushad if the organizers come forward to do so in Hyderabad. He also thanked Shareef for organizing a unique show and inviting him to participate in the program.Dr C Narayana Reddy, Jnanpeeth Awardee and poet praised the versatility of Adnan Sami.

"Whatever weight he lost has added sweetness to his voice," he said adding that Sami deserves 'Naushad Music Award' as a composer who is ready to innovate and ready to learn from his seniors.Dr K Rosaiah, Minister for Finance, and P Susheela veteran play-back singer also praised Adnan Sami. Iftekhar Shareef presented a handsome cash award in the presence and applause of thousands of elite audience of HyderabadSami thanked the organizers for presenting the Naushad Music Award and recalled his association with Naushad.

He acknowledged Iftekhar Shareef's gesture in supporting the art and artistes. Singers of twin cities, Vijayalakshmi, Surekha, Usman and Vinod Babu entertained the audience with Naushad tunes. Adnan Sami showed his prowess on electronic key board and hummed a popular number of his composition.