Violinist Kanyakumari was conferred the Sangeetha Kalasarathy award by the Parthasarathy Swami Sabha at the 118th Isai Vizha inauguration here on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Kanyakumari said, “My association with Parthasarathy Swami Sabha started in the year 1972 when I performed my first solo here. I came to Madras from Andhra 55 years ago and first of all I would like to thank the audience who have been so supportive. At this juncture, I want to thank my parents without whom wouldn’t be in this position today. I should also thank MLV amma who made me as her asthana violinist. After MLV, Kadri Gopalnath is giving me the opportunity to play alongside him and I should also thank him. I also feel very lucky to receive this honour from the Jeeyar of Ahobila Mutt, where I am the Asthana Vidushi.”
On the occasion, Mridangam maestro V Kamalakar Rao was awarded the Palghat Mani Iyer Centenary award, Thavil vidwan Thanjavur T R Govindarajan was presented the Gottuvadyam Narayana Iyengar Award, Vilolinist Embar Kannan who is alos the disciple of Kanyakumari was awareded Dwaram Venkataswami Nayudu award.
MLV award instituted by Sudha Raghunathan was presented to vocalist Amrutha Venkatesh.
The 46th Azhagiyasingar of Sri Ahobila Muth, Sri Ranganatha Yatheendra Maha Desikan graced the occasion and presented the awards to all the artistes.
During his address, he said “Music is an integral part of a human’s life and sabhas like Parthasarathy sabha which is nearing its 120th year should continue to honour great artist who has donated their entire life to the art form and only then the Carnatic music will continue to thrive,”
All the artistes were also felicitated by Sangita Kalanidhi T V Gopalakrishnan.
Senior advocate Mohan Parasaran delivered the welcome address. He said, “This year we are stepping into the Sabha’s 118th year. There is no other sabha which has been in existence for 118 years in the world.”
The event was presided over by President of the Parthasarathy Swami Sabha, Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti. Cleveland VV Sundaram was also present. The Sabha’s annual music festival will be held between 16 December and 4 January.