‘There is no short-cut in classical music’

(An interview with Dr N Rajam published in The Hitavada recently.)

“ITS GOOD to see youngsters taking interest in classical music. I have students worldwide, which reveals that Indian Classical Music touches hearts surpassing all the boundaries,” said Violin maestro Padma Shree Dr N Rajam while speaking exclusively with The Hitavada, after her spellbound performance at Platinum Hall BRA Association, during the concluding session of SPIC-MACAY’s West Zone Covention on Sunday.
Dr Rajam, introduced ‘Khayal Gayaki Ang’ on the violin with such consummate artistry that most musicians, particularly violinist were stunned at the results.

“Earlier, the violin was mainly the supportive instrument and people used to play it in a technical way. The Gayaki Ang is more like singing a song, it includes human emotions and sentiments,” she said. It was proved earlier through her performance, when the words of Gaud Malhar ‘Barso Badariya Sawan Ki,’ could easily be deciphered by everyone. As she played on, the connoisseurs hummed the tune, enjoying the unique experience of becoming one with the artist across the footlight barrier.
She started learning violin in Karnatik style from her violinist father Narayan Iyer at the age of four, later turned towards Hindusthani music uder the gudance of L R Kelkar. “Karnatik Music, is a different flavour of Indian Classical music, which makes it richer,” said Dr Rajan, who have done Ph D on ‘Comparative study of the Musical System of Northern and southern India.’
She was performing in the city after years. “Its nice to peform for children, I always like it” she said. When asked about the increasing craze of reality shows, she said, “I dont watch the reality shows, there is nothing promising in such shows.”
Dr Rajam has produced many talented students, including her daughter Dr Sangeeta Shankar, Kala Ramnath, Dr V Balaji, Dr Swarna Khuntia and several other young violinists of the present time. “Aspiring students should learn music with devotion, and hardwork. There is no short-cut available in Classical Music,” her message to youths.

(All Pictures by The Hitavada Photo-journalist Satish Raut)