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Kumar Gandharva

Kumar Gandharva: Timeless icon who redefined khayal

Kumarji’s radical reinvention of classical music continues to captivate a century after his birth, as a series of events at Ahmedabad University illus
Lakshmi Sreeram
The Music Academy in Chennai, established in 1928, the leading light of Chennai’s famous December music season.

The Carnatic wars

By honouring T.M. Krishna, The Music Academy champions the art of Carnatic music while subtly recognising validity in his critiques. Yet, protests aga
Lakshmi Sreeram
Devotees gather near the idol of Ram Lalla at the newly consecrated temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

Rama is my favourite deity, but his temple in Ayodhya leaves me cold

Though the Gita advocates stoic dispassion, Hindu revivalism injected new blood in India’s quiet veins, making urgent the want for a Ram Mandir.
Lakshmi Sreeram
The artistic value of the violin playing along with the lead performer in all sections of the concert is questionable. In photo, vocalists Ranjani and Gayatri performing in Chennai in December 2018.

Can Carnatic music concerts stand alone without the violin?

Many question the need for the violin as accompaniment, arguing that gaps and silences make for a greater musical experience.
Lakshmi Sreeram
Classes in progress at the ATO Fraternity House, Berkeley, in the summer of 1969.

Ali Akbar Khan (1922-2009): Sultan of strings

A tribute on the Ustad’s birth centenary.
Lakshmi Sreeram
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