Hanuman, also known as ‘Anjaneya’, is one of the most important personalities in the Ramayana. He stands as the prime example of a Bhakta (devotee of God) in popular conception. Anjaneya embodies unalloyed devotion and is a unique symbol of courage, commitment and perseverance. As Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated today here are some songs that have been composed in praise of this deity beginning with … Continue reading Songs on Hanuman (Anjaneya)
Almost every carnatic musician becomes familiar with this raga when they become performers. In a typical carnatic kutcheri the first song (after the varnam) is a prayer to Ganesha, the god who is believed to remove all obstacles. Many kritis have been composed by different composers in raga Nattai. This melody is full of verve and sets the tone for a concert in the beginning. … Continue reading Nattai – Raga Ruminations
This is the first varnam that students typically learn. A composition of Poochi Srinivasa Iyengar in raga Mohanam and tala Adi, the varnam Ninnukori introduces students to an important lesson in their training. Learning a varnam helps students get a better understanding of raga and tala and more importantly breath control! The varnam is sung in different speeds. Here are some renditions of Ninnukori varnam … Continue reading Ninnukori – Varnam
I am thrilled to get on Instagram and use the space to share my passion for Indian Classical Music. With over three decades of being a Carnatic vocalist, writer, and music educator, I’ve had the privilege of spreading the magic of music far and wide. My goal is simple – to make music accessible to everyone. I invite you to follow my page as we … Continue reading On Instagram now
These are some ensembles of women drummers. Do share your favourites! Continue reading Female Drummers – A Playlist
Each time I perform the work of the Bhakti mystics, it is a deeply emotional experience. Yesterday the evocative poetry of the extraordinary Bhakti women and their lives moved me to tears. A clip from yesterday’s program Abhaya – Women Who Dared at the Indian Music Experience Museum (IME) Bangalore. Continue reading Abhaya – Women Who Dared
“Was jazz inspired by Indian classical music?” Recently I did a lecture-demonstration on appreciating Indian classical music for visiting students and faculty of the business school of University of Washington Bothell. This was one of the questions that popped up when we discussed improvisation.I love these opportunities because of the learning & insights both the audience and I gain. The questions nudge me to look … Continue reading Moods & Melodies – Appreciating Indian classical music – UWB
I learnt something new last week. It was after a program in Lucknow during Basant Panchami where I had presented Hindi bhajans. On stage I was accompanied by musicians playing the tabla and harmonium. Despite my initial fears on how it would pan out (having only performed with musicians playing instruments one would see in a typical carnatic concert) it was an experience that stood … Continue reading Basant Panchami at Lucknow
A quick playlist of some of my favourite songs of Ustad Rashid Khan. Please share your favourites! Continue reading Rashid Khan – a music playlist
Carnatic classical musicians have a rich and varied collection of compositions, going back hundreds of years. Throughout the 20th century, Carnatic composers and performers have continued creating innovative and traditional pieces for vocal and instrumental performances. Yet the works of modern composers don’t see much airplay. My article for Mint Lounge looks at how carnatic performers choose their concert repertoire and the factors that influence … Continue reading Playing the same Carnatic tunes for 100 years – Mint Lounge
Chitra Srikrishna 