Carnatic singer S Sowmya along with members of the local community participated in the Tyagaraja Aradhana organized by the Indian Conservatory of Paris in Paris. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

On a serene Sunday morning, as the unique and annual Tyagaraja Aradhana organized by the Indian Conservatory of Paris began, the Paris Town Hall transformed into a vibrant microcosm of Chennai. A beautiful blend of Indian and French cultures, the event had attendees dressed in vibrant silk sarees and crisp kurtas, and the performances reflected the diversity of the audience.

The day began with songs sung by the young talents of the Indian Conservatory of Paris (ICParis), which created an atmosphere of spirit of togetherness. The atmosphere reflected the excitement of Chennai’s revered musical gatherings, bridging continents and cultures. The chief guests – Indian Ambassador to France and Monaco, Javed Ashraf, and Deputy Mayor of Paris 16, Samia Badat Karam – were clearly impressed by the performance, a testament to the universal appeal of Indian classical music.

Gathering in worship Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The Indian Conservatory of Paris was founded in 2015 by Bhavana Pradyumna and Pradyumna Kandadai to promote Indian classical music, dance and art in France. Since then, the organization has done much work in bringing together artists, training and teaching classical music, as well as collaborating with agencies and governments to promote Carnatic music and Indian arts to a world audience.

This year, the Tyagaraja Aradhana in Paris had two main attractions. Tamil Nadu University Vice Chancellor S Sowmya performed at the event along with renowned Amber Kannan on violin and renowned Neyveli Narayanan on Mridangam.

Artists gave a soulful presentation of Purandar Das Sharanu Siddhivinayak, Tyagaraja’s marugelaraand Dikshitar’s Meenakshi Memudam, among others. The main attraction was Tyagaraja’s Jagadananda Karaka; As its first uplifting notes rang out, the hall was plunged into a deep musical embrace.

At the center of the adoration were the Pancharatna Kritis – the five masterpieces of Saint Tyagaraja that transcend borders and languages, holding an iconic place in Carnatic music. The performances presented by the students led by S Sowmya and Bhavana Pradyumna enthralled the audience, transcending language barriers and showcasing the universal appeal of Carnatic music.

Celebrating music and culture, the event marked an important milestone in the journey of cultural exchange. It was founded by Indian Conservatory of Paris and Tamil Nadu by Dr. J. Formalized by the signing of an MoU between Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University, the MoU authorizes the Conservatory to offer diploma courses and certificates in Carnatic Music, Bharatanatyam and Tabla. With Tamil Nadu University.

MoU to strengthen relations

Left to right: Bhavana Pradyumna, founder of the Indian Conservatory of Paris, Deputy Mayor of Paris 16, Samia Badat Karam, Indian Ambassador to France Javed Ashraf and Carnatic singer S Soumya. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Speaking to us about the importance of Tyagaraja Aradhana, Javed Ashraf said: “Both India and France give a high level of importance to cultural traditions, and both are conscious about preserving and nurturing their cultural heritage, so they Appreciate what the country has.” make Offer.”

“The French have a high level of appreciation for the Indian classical traditions of music, dance and visual arts. Such an event not only brings joy and happiness but also connects the people of France with Indian music. It helps everyone experience Indian classical music in a more profound way.”

Expressing her satisfaction on the MoU, Bhavana Pradyumna, President of ICParis, said, “This collaboration is a historic moment for India and France. The Indian Conservatory of Paris will help students achieve advanced levels in Carnatic music and dance and receive grades, diplomas and certificates upon completion. This reflects the work done by ICP over the years and the value seen by students in training at the Conservatory. ,

Thyagaraja Aradhana 2024 in Paris strengthened cultural and educational ties, fostering deeper appreciation and understanding between the two historically diverse cultures of Chennai and Paris through the universal language of music.