Nattuvangam: Guru Smt. Rani Sunil

🎶 The Orchestra

Nattuvangam is a vital element of traditional Indian classical dance, characterized by the rhythmic recitation of syllables by the nattuvanar, the teacher. This rhythmic guidance is essential for dancers, as it helps them execute intricate rhythmic patterns and ensures they stay in sync with the music. In today's performance, Smt. Rani Sunil, who is Subiksha's guru, leads the Nattuvangam. Her expertise not only supports the dancer but also enhances the overall musicality and aesthetics of the performance.

Vocal: Sivaprasad N N

Shri Sivaprasad N. N., hailing from a distinguished family of musicians and Kathakali artists, has received training in Carnatic vocal and Sopanam styles under the expert guidance of his father. He debuted at age nine and has performed extensively on All India Radio and Doordarshan, collaborating with renowned artists like Shri Kelucharan Mohapatra and Smt Chitra Vishweshwaran. He is the founder of "Shrutilaya Fine Arts". As Director & Head of Music at LIOTA, Mumbai, he teaches, conducts Music Therapy workshops, composes for classical dance, and mentors artists globally.

Mridangam: Dr. Kesavan Rama Murthy

Sri Thanjavur R Kesavan, a distinguished percussionist and Nattuvangam artist, comes from a lineage dedicated to music. Based in New Delhi, India, he is celebrated for his technical prowess and versatile performances on the Mridangam, Thavil, Kanjira, and Pakhawaj. Dr. Kesavan has nurtured numerous students through Arangetram and their musical journey with scholarships and concert opportunities. Recognized by Doordarshan and All India Radio, and empanelled with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), he has received accolades such as Sangeeta Bhushan and Mridangam Chakravarthy for his contributions to Indian classical music.

Flute: Srivathsa Pasumarthi

Violin: Vikram Ragukumar

Shri. Vikram Ragukumar had his initial training under legendary violinist Vidwan H.V. Krishnamurthy at Vijaya College of Music, Bangalore. He later pursued intensive training under the guidance of All India Radio Violinist Vidwan B. Raghuram. Vikram has performed extensively in India and the USA as a solo violinist and accompanist for classical music and dance performances. He is currently training under Vidushi. Smt. Asha Ramesh. He also works as a software engineer in the Bay Area.

Srivathsa Pasumarthi is a seventh-generation flautist, following the musical legacy of his father, Pasumarthi Venkataramana, and grandfather, the late Pasumarthi Viswanatha Rao. Initially self-taught, he received formal training from his father and currently pursues advanced training under Sri J.B. Sruthi Sagar of Chennai. Known for his vocalized style of flute playing, Srivathsa emphasizes sahithya (lyrics) in his performances. He has given numerous solo concerts and composed for many dance recitals across India and the US, and also teaches students worldwide.