Hindustani Violin Pioneer N. Rajam Imparts Wisdom at Sangita kalanidhi conferral
Renowned Hindustani violinist N. Rajam delivered a compelling message to aspiring musicians on January 1, 2026: consistent, uninterrupted practice is the key to unlocking unforeseen opportunities. She shared this insight while bestowing the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award upon violinist R.K. Shriramkumar during the Sadas of the Music Academy in Chennai.
Ms. Rajam, an Emeritus Professor and former Dean of the Faculty of Performing Arts at Banaras hindu University, emphasized the lifelong journey of learning. Even after over 85 years of dedicated sadhana (spiritual discipline), she humbly confessed to still feeling like a student herself.
During the ceremony, she passionately encouraged the audience to recognize Mr. Shriramkumar’s mastery, particularly his deep understanding of the keertanas (devotional compositions) of Muthuswami dikshitar with a standing ovation.
The Boundless Ocean of Music
ms.Rajam eloquently described music as an “unfathomable ocean,” encompassing both Carnatic and Hindustani traditions. What we grasp in a single lifetime, she explained, represents merely a fraction of its vastness.
She speculated that musicians demonstrating exceptional proficiency must have dedicated themselves to the art across multiple lifetimes. Reflecting on her own formative years, she recalled attending concerts at the Academy as a child, captivated by veteran musicians.
She would diligently sit in the back row,intently observing and absorbing the intricacies of complex Ragam-Tanam-Pallavi performances. Immediately following each concert, she would rush home to recreate the pallavi line, both directly and in reverse (anulomam and pratilomam), only resting when her father approved her rendition.
A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication
The Music Academy’s century-long commitment to music and its associated music school also received Ms. Rajam’s heartfelt thankfulness. president of the Academy, N. Murali,highlighted Ms. Rajam’s pivotal decision to pursue Hindustani music at Banaras Hindu University, inspired by recordings of Pt. Omkarnath Thakur.
Notably, Ms. Rajam, sister to the celebrated violinist T.N. Krishnan,became a direct student of Pt. Thakur. Before her groundbreaking work, the violin wasn’t widely accepted as a primary accompanying instrument in Hindustani music.
Furthermore, instrumentalists typically employed a style distinct from the gayaki style (vocal-based style). Ms. Rajam pioneered the introduction of the gayaki style to Hindustani violin,fundamentally reshaping the instrument’s role within the tradition.
Recognizing Excellence in the Musical Community
Beyond the Sangita kalanidhi, the Music Academy honored several other distinguished artists.
* Sangita Kala Acharya Awards: Thavil player T.R. Govindarajan and musician shyamala Venkateswaran.
* TTK Awards: Kathakali musician Madambi Subramanian Namboodiri and veena-playing couple J.T. Jeyaraaj krishnan and Jaysri Jeyaraaj Krishnan.
* Musicologist Award: professor C.A. Sreedhara.
Prizes were also awarded to the winners of various musical competitions. N. Ramji, the Academy’s secretary, concluded the event with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of colleagues, staff, volunteers, and scouts who contributed to the season’s success.
This event underscored the enduring power of dedication, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of musical excellence, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Published – January 01, 2026 11:02 pm IST
