Recalling that M S Subbulakshmi had won several awards and had been honoured with the highest civilian recognition of Bharat Ratna, Chatterjee said her passing away had created a void in the arena of classical music which would be difficult to fill. Though she would not be physically present any more, "her melodious voice will continue to inspire us in the times to come", he said.

Paying tributes to the nine persons who laid down their lives to prevent terrorists from entering Parliament House precincts, he said these brave people had successfully thwarted the attack on the 'temple of Indian democracy' by showing exemplary courage this day three years ago. Echoing similar sentiments, Shekhawat said the timely action of these brave men and women had succeeded in averting what could have been a tragedy of vast magnitude.

The Rajya Sabha Chairman said M S Subbulakshmi was known for her simplicity and devotion and had brought international fame to the nation when she was invited to render a concert in 1966 before the UN General Assembly.