CHENNAI: As a protege of Lalgudi Jayaraman, she is convinced that one can learn the nuances and absorb mano- dharama sangeetham of music better, if one keenly observes, besides learning.
“Lalgudi sir taught me to learn and appreciate the beauty of the compositions, and keep in mind the intent of the composer,” avers vocalist Saashwathi Prabhu, whose concentration on sahitya bhava was evident in her concert titled Essentially Divine, at Krishna Gana Sabha.
She began with a varnam of Lalgudi Jayaraman in Raga Nilambari, followed by a Hamsadwani raga kriti of Ramachandra Bhagavathar (Vinayaka), which even the pantheon god would have appreciated. Next, she performed Teleayia leru Rama of Thyagaraja in Raga Dhenuka with an appreciable unique tone that permeated deep into the layers of our mind. It was apparent that she had crafted herself into a resounding vocalist when we heard her perform Begada (Sankari Neevae) of Subbraya Sastri. Her distinct touch remained evident while she performed.
Hemavathi raga kirtana of Dikshitar (Sri Kanthimathim) was presented with an eye for details and cadences. Subsequent exploration of Raga (Navarasa Kanada)( Durgadevi)and Brindavani Raga Thillana of Lalgudi, were presented with an alluring temptation to reinforce bakthi-soaked music. The artiste says, “Aesthetics cannot be introduced but only infused as taught by guru. So, I also strive to present Kalpana Sangeetham and not Kalpitha Sangeetham.” She says that the two most essential requirements in musical arena are devotion to one’s guru and love for the heritage of carnatic music. R Athul kumar on flute gave a good account of himself while Ganapathy Raman on mridangam, Sundar on tabla and Nagarathhinam’s special effects served the needs of the day faithfully.