Madhuri Dasagrandhi

The third day of the Hyderabad Tyagaraja Aaradhana Music Festival (HTAMF) witnessed an enthusiastic audience filling the amphitheater at Shilparamam well before the performances commenced. The 10th edition of HTAMF continued its tradition of mesmerizing the rasikas with stellar performances.

The evening began with a captivating dance performance by Swapna Krishna Mohan and students of Nritya Priya Dance Academy, presenting Nauka Charitam by Tyagaraja Swami. With expressive storytelling, skillful use of props, and vibrant choreography, the eleven-member ensemble—led by their teacher—brought the mischievous little Krishnas to life, spreading joy among the audience.

A Soulful Vocal Concert

The second segment featured an enchanting vocal concert by Vidwan C.V.P. Sastry, accompanied by Vidwan K.L.N. Murthy on violin, M.S. Kalyan Raman on mridangam, and S.A. Phani Bhushan on percussion. Vidwan Sastry opened with Tyagaraja’s kriti "PariyachakamaMatta" in Vanaspathiraagam, Roopakataalam, immediately capturing the audience’s attention with his deep and resonant voice.

He then performed "NiravadhiSukhada" in Ravi Chandrika raagam, Aadi taalam – a fast-paced, foot-tapping rendition."Mokshamugalada" in Saramatiraagam, Aadi taalam – evoking a deeply moving, pleading quality. "Kalalanerchina" in Deepakamraagam (a janya of Kamavardhini), Aadi taalam– showcasing his versatility. "EndundiVedalithivo" in Darbaarraagam, Mishra Chaaputaalam, followed by "Tava Daasoham" in PunnagaVarali, Aadi taalam.

The synchronized performance by the accompanists elevated the concert, creating a divine musical atmosphere.A Grand Violin-Flute Jugalbandi The highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing violin and flute duet by Vidwan D.V.K. Vasudevan (violin) and Vidwan DronendraPhaniKumar (flute).

What made this performance truly special was that Vasudevan, the founder of HTAMF and Sanskriti Foundation, took the stage himself. Their opening piece, "Rama Bhakti Saamrajyam" in Suddha Bangalaraagam, Aadi taalam, transported the audience into a world of blissful devotion.

As the music flowed seamlessly, the disciples of Vasu Garu sat in front of their guru, playing the taalam—a beautiful testament to the Guru-Shishya Parampara. Many of these young learners, despite their parents' professional commitments in top IT companies, dedicate their weekends to the Gurukulam, ensuring the preservation of India's rich cultural heritage.

The presence of esteemed guests, Dr. Rangarajan (Head Priest of Chilkur) and Padma Shri Vidwan AnnavarapuRamaswami, added grandeur to the occasion. The centenarian maestro, Ramaswami, showered praise on his disciple Vasu Garu for carrying forward the tradition through this remarkable festival. He reflected on how music has blessed him with a long and fulfilling life, leaving the audience with an inspiring message on the power of devotion and discipline in art.

As HTAMF enters its final days, the festival continues to resonate with the essence of Tyagaraja’s compositions, bringing together music lovers and torchbearers of tradition in an unforgettable celebration.