A tribute to the Saint Composer Tyagaraja

Nagaratnamma sold her entire property, including her gold ornaments, to raise funds for the temple. She also traveled extensively, meeting with musicians, scholars, and other devotees of Tyagaraja, to gather support and guidance

vjm  divakar | Hyderabad 

In the realm of Indian classical music, there are few names as revered as that of Saint Composer Tyagaraja. A legendary musician, composer, and poet, Tyagaraja's contributions to the world of Carnatic music are immeasurable. However, there is another name that is inextricably linked with Tyagaraja's legacy - that of Bangalore Nagaratnamma, a Devadasi who dedicated her life to building a temple in his honor.

Born in the late 19th century in Bangalore, Nagaratnamma was a Devadasi by profession. Devadasies were women who were dedicated to the service of the deity in temples, and were often trained in music, dance, and other arts. Nagaratnamma was no exception, and she was an accomplished singer and musician in her own right.

However, Nagaratnamma life took a dramatic turn when she discovered the music of Tyagaraja. She was deeply moved by his compositions, which spoke to her on a profound level. As she delved deeper into his music, she became increasingly devoted to the saint composer, and soon, she made it her life's mission to build a temple in his honor.

The task was not an easy one. Nagaratnamma faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, but she remained undeterred. She sold her entire property, including her gold ornaments, to raise funds for the temple. She also traveled extensively, meeting with musicians, scholars, and other devotees of Tyagaraja, to gather support and guidance for her project.

Finally, after years of tireless effort, the temple was completed in 1903. Located in Thiruvarur, the temple was a beautiful structure that reflected Nagaratnamma's deep devotion to Tyagaraja. The temple was inaugurated with a grand ceremony, which was attended by many prominent musicians and scholars of the time.

Nagaratnamma's temple was not just a physical structure; it was a testament to her unwavering devotion to Tyagaraja. She spent the rest of her life serving the temple, and ensuring that Tyagaraja's music and legacy continued to inspire future generations.

Today, the temple is a place of pilgrimage for music lovers and devotees of Tyagaraja. Every year, on the anniversary of Tyagaraja's death, the temple hosts a grand music festival, which attracts musicians and music enthusiasts from all over the world.

Nagaratnamma's story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of devotion and passion. Her unwavering commitment to Tyagaraja's legacy is an inspiration to us all, and her temple remains a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together and transcend boundaries.

As we reflect on Nagaratnamma's remarkable story, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring the contributions of our ancestors. We are also reminded of the transformative power of music to inspire, to heal, and to bring people together.

Bangalore Nagaratnamma's devotion to Saint Composer Tyagaraja is a shining example of the power of passion and commitment. Her temple in Thiruvarur remains a testament to her unwavering dedication, and continues to inspire music lovers and devotees of Tyagaraja to this day. As we honor her legacy, we are reminded of the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and minds, and to bring us closer to the divine.

In one of his TV interviews, eminent Carnatic singer, composer and Vaggeyakara Dr Mangalampalli Balamuralikrishna said but for Bangalore Nagaratnamma, Tyagaraja’s annual Aradhana festival would not have taken place. He said he had the good fortunate to have performed at one of the earliest Aradhana festival when Nagaratnamma herself was present.

“When Rasikas and eminent practioneers of music were thrilled by performance which went from mere half an hour to two hours, Nagaratnamma lifted me and took me in her arms and rushed inside the temple and made me lay prostrate in front of Tygaraja Idol. She gave me Aarthi get off the evil eye. The yearly Tyagaraja Aradhamostavams which are happening in Thiruvarur till date, is due to Nagaratnamma Garu,” he said.