Traditions & creativity mark Varadaraja’s tribute

South Indian Cultural Association (SICA) and family members of music doyen Ganakalanidhi Dr Varadaraja Iyengar held the artiste’s centenary celebrations through a vocal concert by TNS Krishna at Ravindra Bharathi last Thursday. Krishna started the concert with ‘Saveri Varnam Sarasuda Nenney Kori’ (Venkatrama Ayyer) and played many famous Ragas and kirthis, such as Hamsadhwani Kirthi, Thyagaraja Kirthi in Pantuvarali, Ramadasa Kirthi and others.

He played the main piece ‘Ragam Thanam and Pallavi (RTP)’ in twin Ragas Lalitha and Kalyani amidst thunderous applause. He made a rare feat in dealing nine ragas in Ragamalika: Nata, Arabhi, Goula, Varali, Kuntalavarali, Kadanakuthoohalam, Darbar, Neelambari and Bhouli.

Accompanying musical ensemble Komanduri Venkata Krishna on voilin, Vankayala Venkata Ramanamurthy on mridangam and K Syamkumar on kanjira gave a seasoned display while following the vocalist in unison. Former Secretary of Home Department K Padmanabhaiah unveiled a portrait of Varadaraja Ayengar and the Centenary Postal Stamp issued by the postal department.

In his speech, Padamanbhaiah commended the services of late Varadaraja Ayengar for his contribution to classical music and later honored the musicians of the day on behalf of the two organsiations. Dr S Chakravarthy, president of SICA gave an introductory speech and an account of his association with Varadaraja Ayengar to the knowledge of the audience.

By:Chivukula Rama Mohan