Mumbai: In memory of the renowned Nadaswaram artist Nadaswara Vidhwan Padma Shri Dr Sheikh Chinna Moulana, Mumbai’s Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts & Sangeetha Sabha recently celebrated the centenary of the legendary player and the 126th birth anniversary of another legend, Nadaswara Chakravarthy T.N. Rajarathinam Pillai, at the Sabha auditorium.
On the first day evening, 50 Nadaswara and Thavil Vidwans gave a scintillating performance.
The second day morning was marked by a grand procession, led by 74 artists under the guidance of Vyasarpadi Kothandaraman. Their performance of raga Mallari at the Shanmukhananda Auditorium was a sight to behold.
Fellowships, cash prizes for young artists
On this occasion, 50 young artists from all over the country were awarded the prestigious Sri Shanmukhananda Nadaswara Chakravarthy T.N. Rajarathinam Pillai fellowships. These fellowships, named after the legendary Nadaswara Chakravarthy T.N. Rajarathinam Pillai, are a symbol of recognition and support for the recipients’ dedication to Indian classical music.
The governor of Maharashtra, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, presented the awards, each carrying a grant of Rs. one lakh per annum for three years. This significant support has already benefitted 63 young artists, a testament to the Sabha’s commitment to nurturing talent in this form of music.
Recognition for Carnatic music legend
The governor also presented Shri Seshampatti T. Sivalingam with the Sri Shanmukhananda T.N. Rajarathinam Pillai Lifetime Achievement Award, which carries a prize of Rs.2.5 lakhs, a big lamp, and a shawl. Sivalingam has been performing for the last 43 years. He is one of the top artists of the Nadhaswaram in the field of Carnatic music, with an illustrious career spanning more than half a century.
The two-day ceremony concluded with a Nadaswaram concert by S. Kasim and S. Babu, both grandsons of Sheik Chinna Moulana.
Nadaswaram is rooted in South Indian culture
Nadaswaram is a traditional classical instrument found in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and the northern and eastern regions of Sri Lanka. It is comparable to the Shehnai from North India.
In South Indian tradition, the nadaswaram is considered highly auspicious and performed at practically all Hindu weddings and temples.
For more updates Subscribe to Media Eye News
