CHENNAI: The fifth edition of Sri Jayanthi Music Festival 2014, kickstarted at Vani Mahal this Sunday.
Bharatanatyam exponent Nandini Ramani inaugurated the festival, which has been commemorated in the memory of philanthropist Obul Reddy and his wife P Gnanamba.
Speaking on the occasion, Deccan Murthy, president, Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha explained why the August fest was significant and unique. “The event has been a huge success because we’re able to promote a lot of young and new talent during this month. Whereas in December, it’s tough to provide opportunities for everyone,” he said.
Students from Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya sang a few bhajans, as a curtain raiser to the event. This was the second time they were performing at this festival. “We love the fact that they provide a lot of opportunities to school students. We like performing here and hope to come back next time too,” said S Akshaya, a class 12 student of Jaigopal Garodia.
Seven schools had already been selected to perform in this year festival.
Malathi Rangaswamy, vice-president of Music Academy felicitated five artistes with the Vani Kala Nipuna award.
Vocalist S Saketharaman, Violinist BV Raghavendra Rao, Mridangam player Poongulam S Subramaniam, Bharatnatyam dancer Lakshman and theatre artiste K Ramachandran were recipients of the award.
“I can’t thank Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha enough. This is one festival that recognises a lot of new talent,” said Lakshman.
Later, the function was followed by a melodious performance by Nisha Rajagopal and her crew.
The 15-day festival will be conducted in two sessions. While the first session will have many school children singing bhajans, the second will have vocal concerts.
