K. Arun Prakash during a concert at Kartik Fine Arts in 2014 in Chennai.
| Photo Credit: K.V. SRINIVASAN
Violinist R.K. Shriramkumar.
| Photo Credit:
KRISHNAN VV
Our journey began in 1985 on the Pallavan Bus 47A, as we travelled together to perform our very first concert at the Vaishnavi Temple in Tirumullaivayil. Forty years have passed since that day, and I am certain that this beautiful musical journey will continue for many more years to come.
Shriramkumar has, without question, been my greatest inspiration in Carnatic music. I think that in order to perform this art form, in addition to hard work and passion, it is extremely important for a musician to think Carnatic. RKS is one of those rare artistes who not only thinks Carnatic, but truly lives and breathes it.
A devoted scholar and an authority on the compositions of the Trinity, he embodies discipline in kriti patantharam, upholds the purity of Carnatic creativity in manodharma, and demonstrates the utmost respect for language in every composition he renders. I think these are the qualities that every aspiring musician should seek to emulate.
His violin accompaniment is a masterclass in itself, one that deserves an article of its own to do justice to its brilliance. Moreover, he stands among the most gifted tunesmiths and natural vaggeyakaras of our times. His compositions possess a depth and substance reminiscent of the works of the great composers. His numerous lecture demonstrations are a testimony to his communicative skills and his vast knowledge of this art form.
Published – November 28, 2025 01:20 pm IST
