Ratna Ghosh

Ratna Ghosh, a woman with energy and passion for singing who is “a priceless, awesome teacher” is an inspiration for cultural programmes in the Reading community, said a nominator for the Cultural Contribution award, sponsored by M&G Real Estate.

She is an accomplished singer in the tradition of Nobel-laureate Rabindranath Tagore's music, and has published many records, said a nomination.

“She runs a school which teaches Hindustani classical music to students of all ages from five to adults,” said another.

Over the decades Ratna has lived in Reading “she has been instrumental in upholding and propagating rich Indian musical traditions, and inspiring generations of Asian-Indian origin people, who form a large community within Reading and Berkshire, and surrounding areas, culturally and musically.”

Other nominations said: “She has been teaching me since I was five years old and has really been an inspiration.

“She is always so enthusiastic about teaching, singing and giving her students opportunities to sing at different places. She has helped me build confidence to sing on stage, and has taught me a lot about my culture through music.”

“She is the driving force that brings people together for these performances, and she puts so much time and effort in making sure that we can put on an amazing performance,” said a nomination.

“She inspires me every day, with her willingness to learn new things and take on new challenges.”

Her enthusiasm has even prompted a student to start an Indian music society at their university.

Ratna, a trustee of the Bengali Cultural Association, has also been put forward for the Inspiration Award sponsored by McDonald’s and a nominator said: “She is truly an inspiration for me. So much so that I wanted to be her when I was younger.”

Further nominations said: “She is always encouraging people to participate in order to create a more engaged community.

“She is our inspiration for cultural programmes, her energy, passion for singing is priceless. Awesome teacher.

“As a passionate teacher of Indian music, she plays a vital role in preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage.

“Through her dedicated teaching, she not only imparts musical knowledge but also instills a deep appreciation for Indian traditions in the younger generation. Her influence has reached our family personally—her inspiring presence has led my son to begin his own journey in Indian music under her guidance.

“Her influence extends far beyond the classroom – she truly embodies the spirit of inspiration.”