A Divine Musical Evening with Vidwan Saketharaman at Poona Sangeetha Sabha

This evening at Poona Sangeetha Sabha, rasikas were treated to an unforgettable, high-energy concert by Vidwan Saketharaman, accompanied by three equally brilliant artists: Vidwan H.N. Bhaskaran on violin, Vidwan N.C. Bharadwaj on mridangam, and Karthik on ghatam. All four musicians were at their absolute best, offering a concert that will be remembered for a long time to come.

What made the evening truly special was the thematic presentation — a nearly three-hour celebration of Papanasam Sivan’s compositions. Each piece flowed into the next with such grace, devotion, and energy that time seemed to stand still.

The concert opened with a shlokam from the Bhagavatam, describing the glory of Lord Krishna. From there, Saketharaman launched into a spirited “Guruvayurappa” in Chakravakam, setting the tone for the rest of the evening. Not once did the tempo falter — the energy was consistent, the engagement total.

One of the standout moments came with the popular kriti “Nee Irangayenil” in Atana, a heartfelt plea for Devi’s compassion. The niraval at “Thaai irangavidil, seiyuyir vaazhumo…” was particularly touching. Saketharaman skillfully demonstrated the emotional layers of the phrase — as a statement, a question, and a prayer — each interpretation stirring the soul in its own way.

An expansive Shanmukhapriya alapana followed, beautifully developed by both Saketharaman and Bhaskaran. This led into “Aandavaney Unai Nambinen”, a performance that brought goosebumps across the hall. The niraval and kalpanaswarams at “Thandavam Aadum” were electrifying — it felt as though the stage itself was in dance. Saketharaman’s dynamic singing, Bharadwaj’s masterful mridangam, Karthik’s vibrant ghatam, and Bhaskaran’s emotive violin came together in perfect rhythm. The Sapta Thandavam came alive through sound!

Next came “Chittam Irangadha” in Sahana, rendered with divine grace — a soulful appeal for refuge and blessings from Chendil Andavan. It was deeply moving and left a strong emotional imprint.

A brisk “Nambi Kettavar Evaraiya” brought fresh energy, followed by a tender rendition of “Petra Thaai Thanai Marandhalum” and “Nama Shivayathai Naan Maravene” — both rich in bhakti and lyrical beauty.

“Kapali” in Mohanam was yet another highlight — the detailed kalpanaswarams were vibrant and joyful. As always, swaras in Mohanam are a kondattam, and this was no exception. The festive spirit carried seamlessly into the tani avartanam, a thrilling percussion segment that drew thunderous applause.

A beautifully rendered virutham, “Vaadi Varundhinen”, led into “Srinivasa Thiru Venkata Ramana”, peaking emotionally with Saketharaman’s soulful call — “Jagannatha!” A powerful moment where divinity truly felt present.

As the evening progressed, the artists presented “Tharunam Idaiyil Dayai Puri” in Shivaranjani, a poignant choice ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi. This was followed by “Ramanai Bhajithal”, where the audience spontaneously joined in singing “Hare Ram Ram Ram, Seetha Ram Ram Ram” — a beautiful communal moment of devotion.

The emotion in “Enna Thavam Seidhanai Yashoda” was palpable. Just hearing those lines stirred the heart — a testimony to Saketharaman’s ability to channel bhakti into music.

A quick “Maname” followed, and the concert concluded with a perfect Madhyamavati ending — “Karpagame Kann Paarai”, rendered with such depth and feeling that it left many in the audience with moist eyes.

Finally, “Vazhiye Senthamizh” and “Vande Mataram” served as a fitting tribute to our motherland — especially meaningful in this patriotic month.

The entire concert radiated a positive, divine energy. As we stepped out, we carried with us the music, the rhythm, and the emotion — still echoing in our ears and hearts.

Thank you for an unforgettable experience.
– Padma Ramani