Noted Carnatic vocalist and musicologist Prof S R Janakiraman was presented the Tyagaraja Anubhava award by the Parthasarathy Swami Sabha on the occasion of its 112th year celebrations, at Narada Gana Sabha, here on Friday.
The award comprised a citation set in silver, known as bilvapatra and a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.
A book authored by the artiste, Miscellany of Essays on South Indian Music and Musicology, was also released. The first copy of the book was presented to head of the department of Indian Music in the University of Madras, Dr Pramila Gurumurthy, who is also the daughter-in-law of the acclaimed Carnatic vocalist Rajam Iyer. The book is an analysis into the compositions of the composer Sri Tyagaraja and raga-lakshanas of Carnatic krithis.
Speaking on the occasion, president of the Sabha, Nalli Kuppuswamy Chettiar, said: “Usually the awardee grows in stature after receiving such an honour. However, in this case, it is the other way around.” He also recounted his association with Rajam Iyer.
Noted Carnatic vocalist T S Narayanaswamy, who was also present, said that to him, Prof Janakiraman was a ready reckoner of music. “Whenever I needed any clarification in music, I always used to turn to SRJ sir.” Narayanaswamy expressed happiness at Prof Janakiraman being bestowed the honour. The event was followed by a concert by singer P Unnikrishnan.