Double treat

The grandeur of Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, was marked by a melodious flute recital by Dr Jayaprada Ramamurthy at the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Samaj

Dr Jayaprada Ramamurthy gave back-to-back flute performances in the city on the occasion of Janmashtami.

Echoes of the Divine Flute

Dr Jayaprada Ramamurthy entertained the large gathering with her mesmerising flute recital. She presented several traditional and devotional numbers, suiting the divine occasion. Commencing with a Varnam in Navaragamalika 'Valachi Vachchi', she improvised on several ragas, including Mohana, Kamboji, Todi, Ananda Bhairavi and Kuntalavarali, amongst others. The repertoire included kritis such as Taye Yashoda of Oothukkadu; O Rangasai of Tyagaraja; Cheri Yashodaku, Kanti Shukravaramu, Jagadapu of Annamayya; a Purandaradasa Devaranama, and a Tillana. Om Namo Narayana Krishna in Hindolam, Alaipayuthey in Kanada and many other popular numbers caught up with the pulse of the audience, who were swayed by the devotional fervour induced by the music. The festive ambience made one reminiscent of Lord Krishna's divine flute.

Jayaprada was ably supported by her team of accompanists, including Mallikarjun, Krishna Chaitanya, Bhargavaram and Dhananjay. Dr Sethu Babu highlighted the unique contribution of Dr Jayaprada as the first and the only female flute artiste of the state to represent the country at international music festivals. The event was graced by noted industrialist Vasavi Venkateswar Rao, Prof Amritavalli (EFL) and Satyamurthy, who felicitated the artistes.

Classical Flavour at MCEME

Aside from regular festivities of military cadets as part of Janmashtami celebrations, a special celebrity concert was hosted by the MCEME featuring renowned performer Dr Jayaprada Ramamurthy in a unique flute concert. The event was presided over by Commandant of MCEME Lt Gen SM Mehta at the EME temple. On audience requests, Jayaprada presented several devotional numbers and popular bhajans, including Jai Jai Ganapati, Govinda Bolo, Payoji Maine, Achyutam Kesavam, Krishnam Vishnum and Vaishnava Janato. She concluded her recital with a traditional prayer in Raag Bhairavi. The concert was highly applauded by the huge gathering of military cadets & devotees. Dr Jayaprada was felicitated by the dignitaries on the occasion.