Cellist Haas knighted by Dutch Monarchy on King's Day

The King's Day celebration in India this year was marked by a moment of deep cultural resonance and mutual appreciation between India and the Netherlands.

- MURTAZA ALI KHAN

In a special ceremony organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, noted cellist and composer Saskia Rao-de Haas was conferred the prestigious Ridder in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau.

The honour is one of the highest civilian decorations of the Dutch monarchy, awarded to individuals for longstanding meritorious service to society, the State or the Royal House.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, Saskia Rao-de Haas has lived in India for the past 25 years, where she has carved a unique space for herself as a path-breaking musician, educator and cultural bridge-builder. Her deep passion for music led her to India, where she trained intensively under celebrated gurus, most notably the legendary flautist Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia—who himself has previously received the same Dutch honour for his contributions to Indo-Dutch musical ties.

Speaking on receiving the award, Saskia rejoiced, "This is indeed a tremendous honour to receive this recognition, this Knighthood, from my government. Some of the greatest artists have received this decoration and I am truly honoured to be amongst them. I have lived in India for the past 25 years and I have been recognised as being a bridge between our two countries. It is very kind of the Ambassador and her team to make the required efforts. Of course I am also grateful to my wonderful husband (sitarist) Shubhendra Rao."