Chembai music festival enthrals classical connoisseurs

The much-awaited annual event of the Chembai Music Fest, held in memory of the legendary musician Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, has begun in Thiruvananthapuram and the city revels in classical melodies presented by gifted artistes from far and wide. The 122nd birthday celebrations kicked off on September 1 at Sri Chembai Memorial Hall and the opening day had a violin concert by Dr M Narmada.
She was accompanied by Cherthala Krishnakumar on mridangam and Perukavu PL Sudheer on ghatam. The music gala organised by Sri Chembai Memorial Trust also turned the venue for the presentation of Chembai Puraskaram to young prolific vocalist from Kozhikode, SK Mahathi. Musicians Perumbavoor G Raveendranath, Vaikom Venugopal, K Geetha, B Arundhathi and Thiruvanathapuram Surendran were spotted at the venue.
Photo Courtesy: Satheeshan Karicheri

Cherthala Krishnakumar

K Geetha,B Arundhathi
Thiruvananthapuram Surendran

Presenting Chembai Puraskaram to SK Mahathi

Perumbavoor G Raveendranath