Pandit S.C.R.Bhat was one of the senior-most disciples of Padmabhushan Acharya Ratanjankar. Like his guru, he dedicated his entire life to the cause of Hindustani music, working selflessly for the propagation of this invaluable aspect of our ancient culture. His honesty and large-heartedness made him one of the most revered Gurus.
For his unparalleled teaching skill and command over known and rare ragas, he was conferred the title of "Sangeet Acharya" (Doctorate in Music) by Swamiji of Shree Vallabh Sangeetashram, Sion. He was also a recipient of the Tansen Sanman (1993) and the Karnataka Sangeet Natak Academy Award (1999-2000) The Sur Singar Samsad had conferred upon him the title of “Sharang Dev”and in recognition of his merit as a great Guru, Shri Chitrapur Math, Shirali honoured him with the title of "Mahamahopadhyaya.