 Learnt
Vedas, Prabhandas and initial lessons in
music from his father. It is noteworthy that
Sri. Ranganatha Iyengar enacted as
Narada/Swami Nigamantha Mahadesika, in the
drama 'Sankalpa Suryodayam' and used to act
& sing at the stage. He had also given vocal
support for Harikatha performances of S.T.
Srinivasachariar. Having served in reputed
organisations such as Remington, IBM, and
IDM etc. for over 20 years, he decided to
give up the job and pursue Harikatha as his
full time career, at the age of 43. Learnt
Sampradaya Granthas from H.H. Srimath
Thirukudanthai Andavan and the intricacies
of Harikatha and music from the doyen,
Sangeetha Kalanidhi Embar
Vijayaraghavachariar. With his guru Embar's
reference, the Madras Music Academy invited
him in 1979 to present a Harikatha. The
maiden performance (1979) itself became an
instant hit and in the same year - All India
Radio, Trichy started offering programme as
a graded artist and with 20 years of
service, AIR has upgraded him as a TOP Grade
artist. Has performed in all leading Sabhas,
major cities/towns and in small villages
too. Imparting training to students on
Harikatha at Sri. Ranganatha Paduka
Vidyalya, run by Srirangam Srimath Andavan
Asramam. |
