Kolkata media always respected my privacy: Bappi Lahiri

"Being honoured by people of my home city, that too in a place like Tollygunge where I lived, is a matter of great solace. Despite being out of the city more most of the time of the year, it is like coming back to your hometown whenever I step in here," Bappi said after receiving Kolkata Gaurav Samman award here on Thursday night.

"I live in Mumbai. But I always look forward to any honour from you people. And I like the role of Kolkata media, never having bothered me with unseemly private intrusions," he said.

The well-known singer, musician and music-director - who was given the special honour in recognition of his contribution in music-show business in Bengal - said, "Whenwever I get any recognition in Kolkata, it gives me the added pleasure."

Bappi, who came straight from the music launch programme of a Bengali film 'Om Shanti Om', starring among others Rakhi Swant in debut role, said, "I had been with Bengali films always, but with newer films being shot and released in fashion, this can be a new innings for me."

The award was given by the premier photography organisation in the city Kolkata Today in association with XLNC MEDIA and Star Guide.

Ace director Mrinal Sen was given Life Time Achievement Award and 'Ekdin Pratidin' director said, "For me any award means getting another recognition from my own people, my audience."

Model and Social Activist and Richa Sharma, Fashion Designer Agnimitra Paul, Painter Wasim Kapoor, Music Composer Debojyoti Mishra were among those having been conferred the 'Kolkata Gourav' award.