NCPA Citi Online Workshop – The Maratha Influence on Carnatic Music

A free online workshop by V. Sriram

An NCPA Presentation

 Supported by Citi

Carnatic (Karnatak) music is the art (classical) music prevalent in all four south Indian states: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Historically, though the southern area came in contact with the outside world through maritime trade; it remained more or less isolated from the overland invasions from Asia minor that periodically changed and reshaped North India. This relative isolation led to distinct styles of architecture, music, dance and drama.

We are aware that the royal courts, particularly of Mysore and Thanjavur (Tanjore), offered patronage to both North and South Indian performers, and thus facilitated interaction between them. It is interesting that during the 17^th, 18^th and 19^th centuries when Maratha rulers from the Deccan plateau (Maharashtra) ruled Thanjavur, significant changes are noted in the defining features of the South Indian music practice.

Having trained in engineering, advertising and marketing, V. Sriram had a career in varied fields. With his interest in the history of Chennai and Carnatic music, he has made sizeable contribution in the domain of arts and culture. As a Secretary of the Music Academy, editor of The Hindu and Madras Musings, and author of thirty books on culture, business, arts personalities, and the city of Chennai, V. Sriram is a much sought-after speaker on history and fine arts.

This workshop will look at the influence of Maratha culture on Carnatic music. There will be deliberation on various topics like the art of Kathakalakshepam developing from the Marathi kirtankar tradition; how the Maratha rulers composed Carnatic pieces in Marathi language; how Tyagaraja’s opera titled Prahlada Bhakti Vijayam begins with obeisance to Tukaram, Namadeva and Sahadeva among others, the Marathi pieces composed to highlight the stories of Tamil saints, etc.

This 60-mins workshop will be followed by Q-A session
Register now.