Charulatha Mani

A Raga's Journey - Charm of Charukesi

2012-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2857091.ece

A brief guide to Raga Charukesi:

Click here for the PDF

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Raga Charukesi:

Excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 6 - Raga Charukesi:

Adamodi - Thyagaraja kriti in Charukesi, with Lyrics and Meaning:

Previously covered Ragas:

Scintillating Simhendramadhyamam

Vibrant Vasantha

Heart-rending Hamsanandi

Soulful Suddhadhanyasi

Riveting Ritigowla

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

Raga Hamirkalyani

Raga Amritavarshini

Raga Nattai

A Raga's Journey - Passionate Appeal of Simhendramadhyamam

2012-01-20T04:59:00.000-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2817296.ece

A Brief Guide to Raga Simhendramadhyamam:

Click here for the PDF

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Simhendramadhyamam Episode:

Muthusvami Dikshitar's Kamakshi Kamakoti with Lyrics and Meaning:

Previously in "A Raga's Journey":

Vibrant Vasantha

Heart-rending Hamsanandi

Soulful Suddhadhanyasi

Riveting Ritigowla

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

A Raga's Journey - Vibrant Vasantha

2012-01-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2780440.ece

More on Raga Vasantha:

A Brief Guide to Raga Vasantha

Click here for the PDF

Excerpt from Isai Payanam DVD1 - Raga Vasantha in Classical and Film Music

Seethamma Mayamma - Thyagaraja kriti with Lyrics and Meaning

Previously in "A Raga's Journey":

Heart-rending Hamsanandi
Soulful Suddhadhanyasi
Riveting Ritigowla

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

Isai Payanam @ ABBAS Cultural

2012-01-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

Confluence of music featuring Abhangs Bhajans and Classical Ragas by Charulatha Mani
Abbas Cultural Academy
12th January 2012
6:30 PM - Onwards
Kamaraj Memorial Hall
For Tickets call: 9600035375

Music Season 2011 - Live Concert Recordings

2012-01-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

New Albums from Music Season 2011:

"Kamakshim"

Click here to Listen & Download

"Sri Subrahmanyo"

Click here to Listen & Download

Provide your email address while ordering to receive Donor Passes to Isai Payanam events (subject to availability)

Now on iTunes - "Abhangs and Bhajans"

2011-12-30T19:44:00.000-08:00

Charulatha Mani's new album is now available on iTunes and Amazon:

Abhangs & Bhajans
Charulatha Mani

1. Jai sumirath - Yaman - Paramparik
2. Arambhi – Kalavati -Samarth Ramdas

3. Dalita Kaanditha – Pilu - Paramparik
4. Yeyigathu -Revati - Sant Tukaram
5. Theertha Vittala - Raag Malika - SantNamdev
6. Pandaricha - Bhagesri Brindavana - Sant Namdev
7.Bhaktha jana - Brindavana Saranga - Sant Namdev
8. Hari tum haro– Durbari - Mirabai
9. Bhagyadha – Madhyamavati – PurandaraDasa

Click here to listen on iTunes

Click here to listen on Amazon.com

Bharat Kalachar Concert - MP3 Excerpts - 2011.12.28

2011-12-29T03:49:00.000-08:00

Charulatha Mani - Vocal
A.G. Venkatasubramaniam - Violin
Arjun Ganesh - Mridangam

4:30pm 28th December 2011, Bharat Kalachar

Siddhivinayakam - Shanmukhapriya - MP3 excerpt
Munduvenuka - Darbar - MP3 excerpt
Pavanaguru - Hamsanandi - MP3 excerpt
Jayadurge - Sohini
Nidhi chala - Kalyani - MP3 excerpt

Best Female Playback Singer - Jaya TV Awards

2011-12-25T22:02:00.000-08:00

Charulatha Mani receives "Best Female Playback Singer" award for "Chillax" at the Jaya TV Film Awards event on 24th December 2011.

Best Director for M.Raja, Best Music Director for Vijay Antony, Best Choreographer award to Shobhi for Molachu Moonnu, Best Fight Master award for Kanal Kannan. Actor Sivakumar won the Lifetime Acheiver Award, Suriya won 2011 Favourite Actor Award and Karthi won Youth Icon awards.

http://kollywoodz.com/jaya-tv-award-2011-photo-stills/

A Raga's Journey — Heart-rending Hamsanandi

2011-12-24T00:54:00.000-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2741678.ece

More on Raga Hamsanandi:

Raga Hamsanandi - Isai Payanam Live Concert Excerpt (MP3)
Pavana Guru - Raga Hamsanandi (MP3)
Jaya Durge - Raga Sohini (MP3)

Previously, in "A Raga's Journey":
Soulful Suddhadhanyasi
Riveting Ritigowla

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

Kutcheri Kolaveri

2011-12-22T03:12:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the season, yet another "Kolaveri" spin-off, emailed by an unidentified source:

Kutcheri kolaveri kutcheri kolaveridi.....
Kutcheri kolaveri kutcheri kolaveridi....

December season enter enter margazhikolaveri fever

Artist singing audience chatter theywill sleep-u later
Kutcheri kolaveri kutcheri kolaveridi...
Puncture aana throat-u throat-u nosing only bark-u
Secretary eyes meet-u meet-u myfuture-u dark-u

Empty hall-u white hair-u eyes full-afear-u
Next-u Friday review come-u life-ureverse-u gear-u
Mamas mamas o my mamas you showed-u mebow-u
Rava rava onion rava u go eat incanteen-u
God-u I sing for 3 hours-u
Nobody come how-u??
This song for jilpa boys-u we dont havevoice-u

Anyone singing in the chennai music season afternoon siesta concerts can identify with this, I think. Irreverent, but funny nevertheless...

The Hindu : Arts / Music : "Resonating with bhakti"

2011-12-15T23:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2714487.ece

A Raga's Journey: Soulful Suddhadhanyasi

2011-12-09T15:45:00.001-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2701250.ece

More on Raga Suddhadhanyasi:

A Brief Guide to Raga Shuddhadhanyasi (PDF):

Video Clips:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Shuddhadhanyasi episode:

Audio Clips:

Isai Payanam - Raga Shuddhadhanyasi (MP3 excerpt, click here for the full album)

Sri Partasarati - Shuddha Dhanyasi - Muthusvami Dikshitar (MP3)

Subramanyena - Shuddha Dhanyasi - Muthusvami Dikshitar (MP3)

Bhavamulona - Suddhadhanyasi - Annamacharya (MP3)

Previously, in "A Raga's Journey":
Riveting Ritigowla

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

Japanese Enka songs show feat. Charulatha Mani and Srimathumitha

2011-11-30T20:58:00.001-08:00

Had a great evening jamming with celebrated Japanese Enka singer Chadha and Vijay Antony sir at the Hilton, Chennai...

Riveting Ritigowla

2011-11-25T17:11:00.001-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2659559.ece

Please mail feedback to letters@thehindu.co.in

More content on Raga Ritigowla:

http://charulathamani.blogspot.com/2010/11/raga-ritigaula.html

A Brief Guide to Raga Ritigowla (PDF):

Video Clips:

Isai Payanam DVD3 - Raga Ritigowla:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Ritigowla Episode:

Audio Clip:

Cheraravade - Ritigaula - Thyagaraja kriti (MP3 clip)

Previously, in "A Raga's Journey":

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

"Lullabies"

2011-11-22T05:15:00.001-08:00

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150402569428058

A sneak peek into my latest album on "Lullabies" for Geetanjali Audio...dedicated to all lovely moms out there and cute babies:-) (of course, dear daddies too)

Kumudam - Chillax interview with Charulatha Mani

2011-11-12T20:18:00.001-08:00

Article in Kumudam on Charulatha Mani's current hit-song "Chillax"

A Raga's Journey — Magic of Mayamalavagowla

2011-11-11T15:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2618199.ece

Please mail feedback to letters@thehindu.co.in

More on Raga Mayamalavagowla:

A Brief Guide to Raga Mayamalavagowla:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV:

Isai Payanam DVD#4 - Aadikondaar (Muthuthandavar composition):

சில்லாக்ஸ் 'குத்து' கிடையாது! - சாருலதா மணி

2011-11-11T14:37:00.001-08:00

http://www.koodal.com/tamil/movies/interviews/630/charulathamani/singer-charulatha-mani-speaks-about-velayudham-movie-chillax-song

Memorable moments with the Velayudham team

2011-11-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

The Velayudham team - in conversation at Jaya TV sets ...

Velayudham Music Special

2011-11-05T20:27:00.000-07:00

velu 2 by tamilflixhttp://dai.ly/tQd9D1

Director Mr Raja, Music Director Vijay Antony, Lyricist Annamalai with singer Charulatha Mani - in discussion about the hit song CHILLAX from the film Velayudham..Watch and enjoy :-)

A Raga's Journey - Allure of Anandabhairavi

2011-10-28T05:04:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2576822.ece

Please email your feedback to: letters@thehindu.co.in

Anandabhairavi episode of "Isai Payanam" on Jaya TV:

A Brief Guide to Raga Anandabhairavi:

http://charulathamani.com/download/dvd2-literature-anandabhairavi.pdf

Audio Clips :

Award from Rotary - Vocational Service Award to Charulatha Mani

2011-10-27T22:35:00.001-07:00

The Rotary club of Madras Central presented the Vocational Service Award on Monday,24th Oct.2011, to Smt. Charulatha Mani, Musician, Classical and Playback singer and teacher at a well attended function at The Hyatt Hotel. The award was presented by Kalaimamani Abirami Ramanathan , Past Dist.Governor RI Dist. 3230, in the presence of club President K.Kalyansundaram, PDG PT Prabhakar and other club officials.

"Vettri Velayudham" on Jaya TV

2011-10-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

Charulatha sings "Chillax"
"Vettri Velayudham" on Jaya TV
A "Vijay special" in more ways than one, this programme features filmstar Vijay, composer Vijay Antony, and is hosted by Vijay Adiraj :)

"Chart-Topping Chillax" - The Hindu Cinemaplus

2011-10-23T03:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/article2563421.ece

A Raga's Journey: Kinetic Kalyani

2011-10-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2537329.ece

Earlier post on Raga Kalyani:

http://charulathamani.blogspot.com/2011/03/excerpt-from-isai-payanam-dvd-2-is.html

Ragas covered earlier:

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

Sun TV - Vijayadasami fun musical discussion

2011-10-08T23:28:00.000-07:00

Sun TV - Vijayadasami fun musical discussion - Charulatha Mani, Srimathumitha and Velmurugan
Watch and enjoy :)

Isai Payanam Oct 13th for ICICI

2011-10-08T21:01:00.000-07:00

Oct 13th, Thursday - Grand Performance @ The Music Academy, Main Hall..6:30 pm. Organised by ICICI Bank. I shall be presenting a lovely selection of Classical kritis, Abhangs, Bhajans and Old Film songs...
For details reg invites, view the Hindu today and on Wednesday.
See you there...
Jai Sairam!!

>>Update: An online review from a rasika:

http://www.excitingsongs.com/

A Raga's Journey - Poignant Pantuvarali

2011-10-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2500456.ece

More on Raga Pantuvarali:

http://charulathamani.blogspot.com/2011/02/raga-pantuvarali.html

Ragas covered earlier:

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

The Hindu : Life & Style / Metroplus : A Raga’s Journey — Magical Mohanam

2011-09-17T01:02:00.000-07:00

This fortnight I've chosen to write about raga Mohanam in The Hindu, Metro Plus.
Read and enjoy :)

The Hindu : Life & Style / Metroplus : A Raga’s Journey — Magical Mohanam

Also on Raga Mohanam:
Isai Payanam on Jaya TV:

Audio clips:

Ragas covered earlier:
Sacred Shanmukhapriya
Hindolam Highlights
Aspects of Abheri

CHILLAX - THRILLAX

2011-09-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

Really happy about my latest song "CHILLAX" from the VIJAY starrer VELAYUDHAM...A big thank you to Vijay Antony sir for gifting me such a cool song :-)
Thank you dear fans all over the world for showering your praise and love on me...

"Chillax" - from the much-awaited Vijay-starrer
"Velayutham"

Listen to "Chillax" online:

Music: Vijay Anthony
Singers: Charulatha Mani and Karthik

A Raga's Journey - Sacred Shanmukhapriya

2011-09-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2418290.ece

Also on Raga Shanmukhapriya:

Mamava Karunaya - Shanmukhapriya (MP3 clip)
Siddhivinayakam - Shanmukhapriya (MP3 clip)

SICA Concert - Hyderabad

2011-08-26T03:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/music/article2392815.ece

"Elanthari Elanthari" - Song from "Soozhnilai"

2011-08-22T21:35:00.001-07:00

Listen to my song "Elanthari Elanthari"

Movie: "Soozhnilai"
Music: Dhina
Singers: Charulatha Mani, Murali
Lyricist: Yuga Bharathi

The Hindu : Arts / Music : A Raga's Journey – Hindolam Highlights

2011-08-19T23:46:00.000-07:00

My fortnightly Raga Column, this time its Hindolam- Enjoy dear rasikas!!
The Hindu : Arts / Music : A Raga's Journey – Hindolam Highlights

More content on Hindolam:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Hindolam episode:

Audio Clips:

Samajavara - Hindolam - Thyagaraja kriti (MP3)
Ragam Tanam Pallavi - Hindolam (MP3)
Bhajare Gopalam - Hindolam (MP3)
Samaganalolane - Hindolam (MP3)

"Chillax"

2011-08-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

"Chillax" - from the much-awaited Vijay-starrer
"Velayutham"

Sample clip at amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Chillax-Tamil-OST/dp/B005HP2CJK

Music: Vijay Anthony
Singers: Charulatha Mani and Karthik

Aug 7th Isai Sangamam

2011-08-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

The programme was a grand success...thanks dear rasikas and sponsors!

This will be telecast on Vinayakar Chaturti day (Sept 1st) on Star Vijay.

The Hindu : Life & Style / Metroplus : A Raga's Journey — Aspects of Abheri

2011-08-05T21:36:00.000-07:00

My fortnightly column on Ragas in Classical anf Film music started today with Abheri raga.
Click to read:
The Hindu : Life & Style / Metroplus : A Raga's Journey — Aspects of Abheri

Postscript: In addition to many appreciative messages, this column has evoked some responses that have bemused me. Some Scholars of music have written demanding Exhaustive and Correct treatment in accordance with Ancient Treatises (never mind the fact that the definition of Correct varies amongst each one). If they have their way, this column too would sink into the morass of Mumbo-jumbo, Arcane Terminology, Pedantry, and Polemics.
If you read the column, please do send your feedback to: letters@thehindu.co.in

More content on Abheri:

http://charulathamani.blogspot.com/2011/05/raga-abheri.html

A Brief Guide to Raga Abheri (PDF):

Video Clips:

Audio Clips:

Nagumomu - Abheri (MP3)

Bhajare Manasa - Abheri (MP3)

Bhajare - Abheri (MP3)

Eppadipadinaro - Abheri (MP3)

Panchashatpitarupini - Karnataka Devagandhari (MP3)

Also, in "A Raga's Journey":

Magic of Mayamalavagowla

Allure of Anandabhairavi

Kinetic Kalyani

Poignant Pantuvarali

Magical Mohanam

Sacred Shanmukhapriya

Hindolam Highlights

Aspects of Abheri

"Isai Sangamam with Charulatha Mani "- Aug 7, 2011

2011-07-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to attend this unique concert. Hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoy presenting it to you!

Aug 7th, 6:15pm, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mylapore, Chennai

A confluence of Classical music, abhangs and Film music...

Latest song from Markandeyan Movie

2011-06-17T03:20:00.000-07:00

My latest song from Markandeyan film in the music of Sundar C Babu...Salman Khan launched the album which was received by Ilayathalapathi Vijay at a star studded function in Chennai couple of days ago. The song "Yakka Chakka" is a commercial number, fast and dancy...

Listen to it at:

http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/album/T0003071.html

A Thank You to my Rasikas

2011-06-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

The Isai Payanam Trust was started after the success of my Isai Payanam TV show on Jaya TV bridging ragas in Classical and Film music. I started the trust to promote musical awareness among all age groups and all sections of society as well as with the aim to support charitable causes through my music.

Our ecosystem of sabhas today comprises largely a recommendation-driven nepotistic patronage network. Recommendations of senior "vidwans", critics, and self-styled "musicologists" are taken more seriously than the calibre of the artiste itself while allocation of "slots" in the Music Season. Some artistes with absolutely no voice control or even a barely serviceable singing voice are given prime-time slots at so-called prestigious venues.

Professional artistes like yours truly have to contend with such a raw deal, that it is no wonder that today Carnatic Music is fast becoming a vocation for bored housewives and girls waiting to be married. It is no wonder that professional male artistes of my generation are an endangered species. It is a pathetic situation and in nowhere else in the world are professionals forced to take stage along with a motley collection of amateurs as is done in the much hyped up "December Festival", the quality of which is deteriorating with every passing year. This is the truth about the Music Season.

The enthusiastic crowds that come to my concerts and the love I get from my rasikas is all I value and cherish; in fact it's all I have. I don't have bigwigs recommending me as their student, my respected gurus have all passed over and all I have left is their rich musical legacy, their blessings and their teachings.

The numerous emails from visitors to my blog, YouTube channel, website are instrumental in persuading me to continue performing and preserving for posterity my humble contributions to our glorious music tradition.

Thanks for being there for me.. :-) and thanks to those few organisations that have believed in me always and supported me throughout...

“Ayutha Porattam” Audio Release

2011-06-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

Just something interesting....

2011-06-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight on the Tidel Park road as I was sitting in the moving car, the rain was pouring. I saw an auto stranded. The auto driver was repairing the auto, while a huge lorry was shedding light onto the auto, helping the poor driver. Humanity and friendship on the roads of Chennai comes forth in such times of inclement weather. Rather sweet!

New Movie song from "Pasakara Nanbargal" film

2011-05-28T01:52:00.000-07:00

Hello dears!!

Do listen to my latest song from the film "Pasakara Nanbargal" starring Ajmal in the music direction of Sri Dhina. "Rekka katti", a happy high school song...Dhina sir wanted me to give the legendary K B Sundarambal amma's feel and intonation to my portions :-) Had fun while recording, hope the movie and song are a big hit.

Click here to listen to this song

Raga Abheri

2011-05-21T01:59:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 4 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Abheri:

Click here for the PDF

Nagumomu - Thyagaraja kriti in Abheri, with Lyrics & Meaning:

Raga Abheri in Film Music - Isai Payanam from Jaya TV:

Some kritis in Raga Abheri:

Eppadipadinaro - Abheri (MP3)
Bhajare re manasa - Abheri (MP3)
Panchashatpitarupini - Karnataka Devagandhari (MP3)

Previously covered Ragas:

Shirdi Sai Baba Centre, Kuala Lampur

2011-04-30T03:45:00.000-07:00

Performed memorable concerts at Lebuh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur and Klang in Malaysia under the auspices of Shirdi Sai Baba Temples. Remarkable audience turn out....they were very enthusuastic and gave several requests (ragas, songs etc). I was truly lucky to get the blessings of Shirdi Sai and sing amidst his earnest devotees..

I also did some sightseeing with my family... Batu Caves, KL Bird Park, Petronas towers, crazy shopping at the Sunway pyramid and Petaling Street, uber-crazy time at the Sunway lagoon (water, amusement, scream, wildlife and xtreme parks!!).. nice way to unwind and have pure fun...

Back in Chennai now..it's hottt!!

Raga Kalyani

2011-03-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 2 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Kalyani:
Click here for the PDF

Enduko ni manasu - Thyagaraja kriti in Kalyani, with Lyrics and Meaning:

Nidhi chala - Thyagaraja kriti in Kalyani, with Lyrics and Meaning:

Raga Kalyani in Film Music - Isai Payanam episodes from Jaya TV:

Some kritis in Raga Kalyani:

Janani Janani - Ilaiyaraja

Bhajanaseyave - Thyagaraja (MP3)

Nidichala - Thyagaraja (MP3)

Bhajare rechita - Muthuswami Dikshitar (MP3)

Dharisanam Tharumamma (MP3) - on Gomati Ambal of Sankarankoil

Previously covered Ragas:

Raga Nattai

2011-03-08T01:36:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 2 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Nattai:

Click here for the PDF

Mahaganapatim - Dikshitar kriti in Nattai, with Lyrics & Meaning:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV:

Sarasiruhasanapriye - Raga Nattai:

Carnatic Compositions in Nattai:

Mahaganapatim - Mutthusvami Dikshitar- this is a very popular song, has also appeared in Sindhubhairavi film, sung by K. J. Yesudas, and has crowning chittaswaram.
Pavanatmajagaccha - Mutthusvami Dikshitar- A kriti about Anjaneya, he is described as "paripoorna swacchha" meaning totally pure and clean.
Jagananda Karaka- Thyagaraja - The first and most well-known pancharatnam, has also been used as prelude recently by Harris Jayaraj for Ayyangar Veettu Azhage in the movie Anniyan
Ninne Bhajana - Thyagaraja -Kriti on Rama, ideal opening piece
Jaya Jaya Jaya Janaki - Purandaradasa - Kanta Chapu tala based fast piece
Jaya Jaya Swamin - Narayana Theertha - A piece on Vinayaka, unusual since Narayana Theertha usually composes on Krishna.
Umayor Bagane - Papanasam Sivan - kriti on Lord Shiva
Sri Mahaganapate - N. S. Ramachandran
Edayya Gati - this is in Chalanata raga, the parent raga of Nattai. Koteeswara Iyer has composed this on Lord Shiva, mudra of raga as “Bhutala Chalanata nin Taal thaan gati”)

Vishnusahothariyin - Nattai kriti on Gomathiambal of Sankarankoil - MP3 clip

Film songs based in Nattai:

Mahaganapatim - "Sindhu Bhairavi"- Ilayaraja has just used the original kriti in concert format, sung by Yesudas his mesmering voice and ideal back-ups giving it a charm that still endures.
Chennai Senthamizh - "M. Kumaran, Son of Mahalakshmi" - this is a tune by Srikanth Deva inspired by Mahaganapatim, sung by Harish Raghavendra.
Ayyangar Veettu- "Anniyan" - Harris Jayaraj has done a great job and beautifuly sung by Hariharan
Narumugaye- "Iruvar" - A lovely piece by AR Rahman, sung by Unnikrishnan and Bombay Jayashri, the words by Vairamuthu refer to Sanga Ilakkiyam usages.
Pani Vizhum (Chalanata) - Ninaivellam Nithya - a classic portrayal of Chalanata, unrivalled piece by Ilayaraja
Spiderman (Jog Rag) - "New" - Hindustani raga similar to Nattai, Jog is intoxicating. Sadhana Sargam has sung brilliantly in AR Rahman's music
Thom Thom- "Alli Thanda Vaanam" -Vidyasagar's music with brilliant sangatis. Hariharan and Chitra have lent sheen to this piece

Previously covered Ragas:

Chennai Times 26th Feb 2011 - Isai Cafe on Raj TV

2011-02-28T00:13:00.000-08:00

Isai Café: Week 7 - MGR Songs

2011-02-27T05:46:00.000-08:00

YouTube clips by iStream:

Raga Hamsanadam

2011-02-25T07:05:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 4 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Hamsanadam:

Click here for the PDF

Banturiti - Thyagaraja kriti in Hamsanadam, with Lyrics & Meaning:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Raga Hamsanadam:

Previously covered Ragas:

Thirukannapuram Theppam Concert, 23rd February

2011-02-24T02:53:00.000-08:00

I just returned this morning after performing on a Theppam - a float housing of the Lord in the pushkarini at Thirukannapuram. Sri Sowriraja Perumal looked absolutely gorgeous with His consorts, the four thaayars. It felt great to perform afloat on a decorated platform with the Utsavar and hundreds of onlookers from all directions. The concert took place from 10:30 pm to 1:30 am. Memorable. Sang all Perumal songs including Sirkali's "Kannapuram selven, kavalaiyellam marappen!", Pasurams, Ramanukku Mannan Mudi, Enna Thavam, Manavinalakinchara, Mudi Ondri, Pallandu, Alaipayuthey, Krishna Nee, Kurai Ondrum Illai, Thandanana..etc. Very populist list, intended to be that way, owing to demand of the listeners...

Earlier in the day I had darshan at Soundararaja Perumal Temple, Nagapattinam, Singaravelan Temple, Sikkil, Kayarohanesar Temple, and Nellikadai Mariamman Temple.

In the next Sahitya Payanam I have lots to share with you all on Soundararajam kriti (Brindavana Saranga) and Kayarohanesam (Devagandharam) of Dikshitar composed by him at the specific sthalas. Awe-inspiring and humbling experience...

Gems of Thyagaraja

2011-02-16T05:01:00.000-08:00

Gems of Thyagaraja - MP3 Album - Rhythm Music

Click on the links below to play the MP3 excerpts:

Available at most music outlets.Limited copies are available at 20% discount and FREE shipping within India:
Click here to order online

Raga Charukesi

2011-02-14T05:42:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 6 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Charukesi:

Click here for the PDF

Adamodi - Thyagaraja kriti in Charukesi, with Lyrics & Meaning:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Raga Charukesi:

Previously covered Ragas:

Raga Pantuvarali

2011-02-07T01:13:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - DVD 3 is available on YouTube:

A brief guide to Raga Pantuvarali:

Click here for the PDF
Siva Siva Siva - Thyagaraja kriti in Pantuvarali, with Lyrics & Meaning:

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Raga Pantuvarali:

Audio Clips:

Siva Siva Siva - Pantuvarali (MP3)

Previously covered Ragas:

Isai Café Week 5: Sivaji Ganesan

2011-02-05T05:40:00.000-08:00

Sri Gomathi Ambal Krithis

2011-02-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

"The Sacred Hymns on Gomathi Ambal, Sankarankoil"

Text: Coimbatore Kunjammal

Set to music and sung by: Charulatha Mani

The album is available free of cost from the Kunjammal family. Details on the CD cover image above.

Click on the image to view full-size.

MP3 Clips:

Isai Café: Week 4

2011-01-29T03:40:00.000-08:00

Isai Café: 'Suddha Dhanyasi Ragam'

More clips from iStream:

Raga Hamirkalyani

2011-01-28T18:54:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - Volume 6 is available on YouTube (incidentally, this is the 100th clip uploaded on the IsaiPayanam channel!):

Click here for the PDF

Parimala Ranganatham - Hamirkalyani - Lyrics & Meaning:

Previously covered Ragas:

Isai Payanam DVDs and CDs are available at:

http://charulathamani.com/albums/carnatic_music_charulatha_albums.php

Isai Café: Week 3 - Rajnikanth Songs

2011-01-22T23:12:00.000-08:00

YouTube clips from iStream:

Music Season 2010-2011 Recordings

2011-01-17T18:49:00.000-08:00

Recordings from Music Season 2010-2011 are now available:

MP3 Excerpts from Isai Payanam @ Narada Gana Sabha 2011:

Raga Ritigaula - Cheraravade
Raga Subhapantuvarali - Pasupatisvaram
Raga Bhagesri - Abhang (Pandaricha)
Raga Mohanam - Kapali
Raga Kaanada
Tillana - Raga Desh

Full list of albums at:

http://charulathamani.com/albums/carnatic_music_charulatha_albums.php

Isai Café: Week 2

2011-01-17T18:26:00.000-08:00

YouTube clips from Istream:

SunTV Pongal Programme

2011-01-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

Music Season Press Coverage

2011-01-13T22:25:00.001-08:00

Deccan Chronicle

Chennai Times

Isai Payanam @ Abbas 2011

2011-01-12T21:49:00.001-08:00

"Isai Payanam with Charulatha Mani"

Ragas in Classical & Film Music

12th January 2011, Abbas Cultural, Kamaraj Arangam

The concert featured:

Raga Gambhiranattai
Raga Hindolam
Abhang - Arambhi
Raga Kalyani
Raga Kapi
Abhang - Theerthavittala
Raga Chakravakam
Raga Hamsanadam (Click here for MP3 clip)
Abhang - Bhaktajanavatsale
Ragas Brindavani & Madhyamavathi
Raga Abheri (Click here for MP3 clip)
Raga Revati
Abhang - Pandaricha
Bhagyadalakshmi

Isai Café on Raj TV

2011-01-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

Charulatha Mani and Srimathumitha present "Isai Cafe" on Raj TV (Thursdays & Fridays at 9:00pm)

Episode 1: Kamal songs

YouTube clips from Istream:

Isai Payanam @ Abbas Cultural - 12th Jan. 2011

2011-01-09T00:17:00.000-08:00

"Isai Payanam with Charulatha Mani"

Ragas in Classical & Film Music, Bhajans & Abhangs

6:30pm 12th January 2011

Abbas Cultural, Kamarajar Arangam

Hats Off Harris

2010-12-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

Sang "Onra Renda" from Kaaka Kaaka for the "Hats Off Harris" event at Nehru Indoor Stadium on 26th December.

Parthasarathy Swami Sabha Concert

2010-12-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

Charulatha Mani - Carnatic Vocal
Sri Parthasarathy Swami Sabha , 26th December 2010
B. Anantakrishnan - Violin
Tillaistanam Suryanarayanan - Mridangam
Morsing - Sundar

MP3 Excerpts:

Bhajamanasa - Bahudari
Pariyachakama - Vanaspati
Ramaikanannu - Sahana
O Jagadamba - Anandabhairavi
Arulavendum - Saramati
Kamakshi - Varali
Bhaktajanavatsale - Abhang
Viruttam & Thillana - Sindhubhairavi
Yehigatu -Abhang

New Year Concert - Kuwait

2010-12-25T04:44:00.001-08:00

[Update] Report in KuwaitSamachar:

Dinakaran Article - 25th December 2010

2010-12-25T04:37:00.001-08:00

Click on image to view in full resolution

Times of India Article

2010-12-15T19:58:00.000-08:00

Click image to view full size

New DVD - "Raga Sangamam"

2010-12-09T21:49:00.000-08:00

"Raga Sangamam" (DVD) by Rhythm Audio

Charulatha Mani presents Ragas in Classical & Film Music

Ragas featured:

Bhairavi
Desh

Isai Payanam - 2nd January 2011

2010-12-04T21:27:00.000-08:00

"Isai Payanam with Charulatha Mani"

Ragas in Classical & Film Music

7:30pm, Sunday, 2nd January 2010

Venue: Narada Gana Sabha (Main Hall)

Tickets: 9962623387 / 24993201

Music Quiz with Prizes
Attendees receive Free Copy of Charulatha's latest album, "Gomathi"

Isai Payanam - 3rd December 2010

2010-11-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

"Isai Payanam with Charulatha Mani"

Ragas in Classical & Film Music

4:30pm, 3rd December 2010 @ Kartik Fine Arts

Venue: Narada Gana Sabha (Main Hall)

Tickets: 91-44-24997788 / 91-9094829675 / 91-9962623387

*** Updates:

Report of this concert on Kartik Fine Arts' website:

http://kartikfinearts.com/news_12032010.html

Kungumam Article:

Quiz Winners:

Parvathy Sankaran - Alwarpet

Champakala - R.A.Puram

Ganga Srinivasan - Trustpakkam South

Meena Ramaswamy - Thiruvanmiyur

Mahalakshmi N. - Royapettah

Shantha Narasimhan - T.Nagar

Swarna Swaminathan - R.A.Puram

Sankaralingam K. - Teynampet

Aruna Parthasarathy - Mylapore

Padmini B. - Alwarpet

Saroja - Royapettah

Sandhya Ram S. - R.A.Puram

Nalini R. - Adyar

Raji Subramaniam - R.A.Puram

Radha Krishnamoorthy - T.Nagar

Narayanan R. - Adyar

Saroja M. - Mylapore

Indra Sankaran - Adyar

Nellayappan S. - Adyar

Uma Gopalan - Saidapet

Murthy R.K. - R.A.Puram

Congratulations!

Sahithya Payanam #4 - Vani Mahal

2010-11-13T22:05:00.000-08:00

The fourth installment of Sahithya Payanam was held at Vani Mahal on 13th November.

The concert was preceded by a donation by the Isai Payanam Trust (Regd.) to "RASA" - a special education school that reaches out to developmentally disabled children in Chennai through dance, music, and art. RASA is run by Bharatnatyam dancer Dr. Ambika Kameshwar.

MP3 Audio Excerpts from the concert:

Video Excerpts:

Video clips contributed by: Mr. N.Kandasamy

Quiz Answers for Sahitya Payanam #3, and the Winner

2010-11-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

Which of the following ragas does NOT feature in Thayagaraja's Pancharathna kritis? Bilahari (c)
M L Vasanthakumari's illustrious guru was - (a) G. N. Balasubramaniam
The beginner's exercises in Classical music were composed by - (b) Purandaradasa
The mudra of Shyama Sastri was - (a) Shyama Krishna
The “Tiruppavais” were composed by - (b) Andal

Winner: Smt Vijayalakshmi Ganesan, Triplicane. Congratulations!!

The next Sahitya Payanam concert #4 is at Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha, Vani Mahal, Obul Reddy Hall on Nov 13th, 6:30 pm. Await the quiz!

Isai Payanam Trust (Regd.) team.

RajTV Diwali Fusion

2010-11-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

Video Clips of Raj TV's Diwali music programme are available on YouTube:

Charulatha Mani - Vocal
Raviram -Flute
Nagarajan - Pads and Tabla
Suryanarayanan - Mridangam
Manigandan - Keyboard

Part 1 - Ragamalika:

Part 2 - Maadu meikum kanne:

Sahitya Payanam - A Divine Experience

2010-11-07T01:27:00.000-07:00

On October 31st 2010 I performed the Sahitya Payanam concert at R. K. Swamy Auditorium, Mylapore. I performed "Pranamamyaham" in Gowla, "Panchashat Peetha" in Karnataka Devagandhari, "Todudaiya Seviyan", "Venkatachala Nilayam", "Raghuvamsa Suthambudi", "Sakala Graha" in Atana, "Shankari Shankuru" in Saveri and finally "Baro Krishnayya", a Ragamalika. Oct 31st being MLV's rememberance day I sang a few pieces popularised by her.
All these pieces were preceded by interesting anecdotes regarding the composer, composition, the meaning, as well as side stories from the puranas and ancient scriptures. The audience thoroughly enjoyed my speech as well as music. I was enjoying myself too; it is truly divine to understand and impart to all the glorious lyrical beauty contained in the treasure trove of Classical music.
The concert was preceded by the presenting of a cash award from the Isai Payanam Trust to veteran Tambura artiste Ms. Vijayalakshmi as token of appreciation for her services to Carnatic Music. In addition to accompanying many musicians on the tambura, Ms. Vijayalakshmi is also an accomplished singer, having sung in film choruses in her younger days.
MP3 clips:

Pranamamyaham - Gaula
Thevaram
Panchashatpitarupini - Karnataka Devagandhari
Raghuvamsasudha - Kadanakutuhalam
Maand
Venkatachalanilayam - Sindhubhairavi
Sakalagrahabalamemi - Atana
Sankarisankuru - Saveri
Haritumaharo - Bhajan
Baro Krishnaiya and Mangalam

By the way, hope you all had a great Diwali! I am sure you did!! I am still gorging on the sweets made with tonnes of love, lots of cashew, raisins, sugar, ghee by my dear grand mother. The mixture and then kuzhal were lovely too. I have to head to the kitchen right now, feeling very peckish!!

Raga Ritigaula

2010-11-07T01:26:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from Isai Payanam - Volume 3 is available on YouTube:

Click here for the PDF

Isai Payanam on Jaya TV - Ritigaula Episode:

Audio Clip:
Cheraravade - Ritigaula - Thyagaraja kriti (MP3 clip)

Previously covered Ragas:

Isai Payanam DVDs and CDs are available at:
http://charulathamani.com/albums/carnatic_music_charulatha_albums.php

SAHITYA PAYANAM by CHARULATHA MANI

2010-10-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

Isai Payanam Trust (Regd.)

presents

Charulatha Mani's ‘Sahitya Payanam - a Divine Journey'

on October 31, 6.30 pm at the R. K. Swamy Auditorium (opp. Bharatiya
Vidya Bhavan), Mylapore.

She will present classical compositions in various languages
providing their meaning, background information, and interesting
anecdotes about the kshetra and composer.

Entry is free. Sponsor: Shriram Foundation

Corporate Show for HCL

2010-10-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

Last evening I performed a special concert for HCL especially for some distinguished guests from the United States.
I started off with a Ganesha Slokam, went into Shankarabharanam raga, sang Mozart's 25th (familiar to the Indian audience as the Titan jingle). I then proceeded to the oft-heard Bridal Chorus, "Treulich geführt" from Wagner's Lohengrin, more familiar in English as "Here Comes the Bride". From there to Gowri Kalyana Vaibhogame...the theme of this piece being "Wedding - a Lifelong Partnership".
The next piece was "Motherhood - Unconditional Love", and I presented "Enna Thavam Seidhanai" in Kapi raga, the audience were interactive and repeated some Kapi phrases after me!
I also presented "Manadhil Urudi" and "Chinnanchirukilye" with translations of important lines...
A nice experience for all of us...
Will post a picture soon,

CLM

Ganesha Caller Tunes

2010-09-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Ganesha caller tunes, sung by myself and my sister Srimathumitha:

Concerts at London, 18th & 19th September 2010

2010-09-20T00:35:00.000-07:00

The KHCOSA (Regd) had arranged my shows in the UK .. and what a weekend this has been. I felt music in every cell of my body...my creativity was fueled by the enthusiastic audience and my very capable band members. Our ensemble comprised of Jyotsna Srikanth on the violin, Isaac Clement on the keys, Suresh on the Tabla and Drums, Pirashana on the Mridangam, and Sentan on the morsing. We had the Ghatam and Thavil sounds coming in as well.. We had great fun on stage and the audience just lapped it up.

I presented classical pieces, semi-classical songs interspersed with my own scores of jathis and swaras, elements of fusion music, and well-loved cine songs as medleys. All this left the audience wanting more...
I am going around London today, and my brief stay here has been in a country-side home, and in the yard there are bushes carved out like the three bears of Goldilocks. There is plenty of greenery, narrow roads, wooded forests, and clearing suitable for short treks and the like. I am missing my husband Karthik, my friend, and guide, who loves to walk around in the country side and we both like going on long treks.

bye for now...

Video Clips:

Audio Excerpts (MP3):

Kantamam - Raga Sindhubhairavi

Sindhubhairavi in Film Music - A Medley

Darbari Kaanada in Film Music - A Medley

Tribute to Swarnalata, followed by Raga Mohanam in Classical & Film Music - A Medley

Press Coverage - September 2010

2010-09-17T23:12:00.000-07:00

"Nokkala Enakku" - song in "Oru Koodai Mutham"

2010-09-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Listen to my song "Nokkala Enakku" from the movie "Oru Koodai Mutham":

http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/album/T0002506.html

http://music.galatta.com

Singers: Thambi Ramaiah, Charulatha Mani

Music: Shanthan

Isai Payanam - UK 2010

2010-09-09T00:48:00.001-07:00

Isai Payanam Concert #14 - BVB Chennai

2010-08-25T01:29:00.000-07:00

The Isai Payanam journey for me has been a very memorable and exciting one. Unraveling the beauties and demystifying ragas in Classical and Film Music has helped me gain insight into both systems as a rasika, as a critic, as well as mould myself as a performer who can handle all genres of music. I am able to delve deep into ragas one at a time, and this unhurried thorough approach has made me a more mature and wholesome musician.

In this edition of Isai Payanam, the fourteenth of the series I presented ragas Atana, Hamsanandi, Bhairavi and Desh, their striking features, classical and semi-classical pieces in them as well as well-loved film songs (Tamil and Hindi) that feature in them.

The turn-out as usual was huge, including some standees, and all of us had a great time. I love my audience who come with such enthusiasm for my Isai Payanam concerts and cruise with me. Their appreciation and spontaneous participation spurs me to set higher standards for myself and this show.

You shall soon see a commercial release of this concert in DVD format at music outlets.

I once again realised that evening the importance of one mantra that has always come back to me in moments of intense artistic emotion -Music is always greater that the musician!...To be an instrument in the hands of art is indeed a gift from above.

Chennai Times - 15th August 2010

2010-08-16T03:50:00.000-07:00

"Easy on the ears" - The Hindu Friday Review

2010-08-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

"Pettagam" on Makkal TV

2010-08-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

I recently spoke about my treasured possessions for the "Pettagam" show on Makkal TV.

Let me tell you the story behind the "Best Vocalist Tambura prize" that I received from Shanti Arts Foundation Kutcheri contest back in 2002. I won a vintage Tambura presented by Sri Ramabhadran, of SAFE.

It was a week-long concert festival featuring various young singers. The judges including Sri K. S. Kalidas, mridangist, Sri. K. V. Krishnan, senior disciple of Sri Semmangudi, and Sri Chengalput Ranganathan, all highly accomplished seniors, awarded me the prize. I later learnt that the owner of the hall in which this was held, though neither a practitioner of the art nor even trained in it, took the liberty of opposing the decision of the veteran vidwans, all because he called himself a "patron" of music. He was firmly against giving me the prize, for reasons best known to him. Anyway, on that day, principle triumphed over pressure, and I won the prize.

Talented youngsters who participate in the plethora of competitions held these days, should take it in their stride when they are ignored. It isn't necessarily a reflection on one's calibre. Most of the competitions I participated in as a young girl were won by persons who are nowhere to be seen today! Never be disheartened; keep following your Muse!

Albums Release Function

2010-07-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

At a function on 16^th July at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mylapore, singer Charulatha Mani’s latest albums produced by Rhythm Music - “Sankirtanam – Popular Telugu Kritis”, and “Isai Payanam – Live in UK” were released. The chief guests of the evening were Sangita Kalanidhi Dr. N. Ramani, renowned flute maestro and Sri. S. Ve. Shekher MLA, and Theatre Personality.

Sri Ramani said that Smt Charulatha Mani’s voice has a divine charm and that she has sung the Telugu songs with the correct pronunciation and devotional fervour. He blessed her for all her future endeavours. Sri S. Ve. Shekher spoke on the album contents and praised the artiste's effort in presenting such an album to the rasikas of music. He also complimented the recording quality and said that the “Isai Payanam – Live in UK” is a treat to Classical music and film music lovers.

Smt R. Amaravathy, Proprietrix, Rhythm Audio too spoke on the occasion and expressed her gratitude to the artiste and the guests.

The function was followed by Charulatha Mani’s “Sahitya Payanam” concert, in which she explained the meaning and background stories behind well-known classical kritis and then presented them in a concert form. She was accompanied by Sri Bombay Anand on the violin, and Sri Thillaisthanam Suryanarayanan on the mridangam.

Video of Release Function:

Click here for Concert Audio Excerpts (MP3)

Audio Release - 16th July

2010-07-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Kannadasan Award

2010-07-07T23:15:00.000-07:00

I was very happy to be the recipient of the "Kannadasan Award" for Best Playback Singer. Kannadasan is one of the most celebrated Tamil Film lyricists and his songs reflected simplicity and beauty coupled with intelligent usages of the language. He is hailed as "Kaviarasu" the king among poets. The songs of his tuned by M. S. Viswanathan and Ramamurthy are evergreen super-hits that always linger in the hearts of music lovers. I am a great fan of his songs and was thrilled to receive an award in his name, and that too from the veteran singer Sri P. B. Sreenivos!

His "Kalangalil Aval Vasantham" still lingers in my mind.

It was a nice evening at Rama Rao Kala Mantap, T. Nagar, and was covered by the Mega TV and organised by Ajanta Fine Arts.

"Singampatti" song from movie "Veluthu Kattu"

2010-06-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

Veluthu Kattu

Music Directors: Bharani, Sukumar
Actors: Arundhathee, Kathir
Director: Senapadimagan
Producer: Chandrasekaran SA

"Singampatti"

Singers: Charulatha Mani, Shankar Mahadevan Lyricist: Kabilan

Abu Dhabi concert, June 18th, 2010

2010-06-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

The Carnatic Music Society and Indian Embassy at Abu Dhabi jointly hosted my Isai Payanam concert there. Warm audience, plenty of life and enthusiasm in them...

I presented certain Dasar padas, Thyagaraja and Dikshitar kritis, Bhajans and Abhangs in addition to Tamil favourites since the audience there is a mix of Tamil speaking population and Malayalam, Kannada, Telugu and Hindi.

Mr Ganesh, a music lover and organiser from Abu Dhabi took the initiative to bring me to UAE after listening to my live concert here in Chennai. Very meticulous organiser and nice person. He and his wife Chandrika took great care of me, took me around after the concert, and we had lots of fun.

The visit to the Grand Mosque was unforgettable. Awe-inspiring architecture, marbled surfaces, hand painted windows, carpet, high ceilings, massive open-to-sky area...an experience to cherish. Wearing the burkha was a novel experience... I respect all religions and felt very calm and took in the spiritual vibrations.

The Royal Rajasthan restaurant supplied food after the concert and the Pudina Pulao tasted awesome...the next day we were invited there for lunch again and the Rajasthani thali was so good, I fell completely silent while eating. Watch out for the restaurant folks...

Shopping was a riot and I went crazy. If I had a few more days there I would have gladly blown up every last Dirham I possessed. SO COOL!

I met and chatted with popular comedian Mr.Vadivelu in the flight who was seated right behind me. I'm a big fan!

New Albums from Rhythm Audio

2010-06-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

Sankirtanam - Popular Telugu Kritis

Sriman Narayana - Bowli - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Slokam & Garudagamana - Hindolam - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Brahmakadigina - Mukhari - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Bhavamulona - Suddhadhanyasi - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Sri Rama Padama - Amritavahini - Thyagaraja MP3 clip
Entha Muddo - Bindumalini - Thyagaraja MP3 clip
Rama Daya Judave - Dhanyasi - Bhadrachala Ramadas MP3 clip
Marugelara - Jayantasri - Thyagaraja MP3 clip
Nada Thanumanisam - Thyagaraja MP3 clip
Muddugare Yasoda - Kurinji - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Bhavayami Gopalam - Yamuna Kalyani - Annamacharya MP3 clip
Ksheera Sagara - Anandabhairavi - Thyagaraja MP3 clip
Uyyala Luguma - Yamuna Kalyani - Sai Yachendra MP3 clip
Brahmam Okate - Bowli - Thyagaraja MP3 clip

Isai Payanam - Live Concert, UK 2009

Raga Nattai
Raga Ratipatipriya
Raga Hindolam
Raga Valaji
Raga Anandabhairavi
Raga Desh
Raga Hamsanadam
Raga Kapi
Ragamalika - Srichakraraja
Ragamalika - Chinanchiru
Raga Chakravakam
Raga Mohanam
Raga Maand
Ragamalika - Kuraionrum

To order online, visit:

http://charulathamani.com/albums/carnatic_music_charulatha_albums.php

Isai Payanam @ Melbourne, June 6th 2010

2010-06-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

It was a lovely day, a little rain, sunshine, and single digit temperatures at Melbourne, Australia.
My Isai Payanam concert started at 4:30 pm at the Performing Arts Centre, Rowville. The hall is a beauty, with fine sound, good acoustic design and panelling.
The hall was filled to its capacity of 500, and there were standees too. This was a fund raiser for the Vakrathunda Vinayagar Temple, Basin. Responsive, alert audience they were, with a huge appetite for music. Several ragas were lapped up, Classical pieces, devotionals, film songs etc. were sung by me, and I was enjoying myself too. Accompanying me on stage were Nagaraj Iyer on the Violin, and Yogaraja Kandasamy, a leading mridangist in Australia, and a very talented young keyboardist, and morsing player, as well as Kannan on the tabla.

The Indian Arts Association had arranged me a series of radio and TV interviews, promos, and had printed lovely brochures indicating program sequence, profiles of artistes etc. tastefully done. Mr Raj Nagarajan, President of the temple proposed the vote of thanks and the CD/DVD sales were awesome. We ran out of copies, but then we always do. Thank you dear rasikas for making me a happy artiste!!!

MP3 Audio excerpts:

Raga Tillang

Raga Nilamani

Raga Revathi

Read the Dinamalar article:

http://tinyurl.com/3x495wf

Isai Payanam Concert at Sydney, May 23rd

2010-05-28T05:19:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

You may be wondering why this hiatus from blogging for dear Charu, but I assure you that I'm fine, in the pink of health, and just back to work after a most memorable vacation in Western and South Western Australia with my family.

My concert at Sydney on May 23rd was well attended by Srilankans and South Indians alike. It was an Isai Payanam concert where I outlined ragas like Hamsadhwani, Dwijavanti, Sahana, Maand, Sindhubhairavi, Pantuvarali and others highlighting their classical and film features much to everyones delight. I had plenty of requests and the evening was long and exciting with lots of interaction with the crowd. The crowd consisted of young students and older seasoned rasikas.

The day after the concert I did sight-seeing of Sydney - Darling Harbour, Centre Point tower, Opera House etc. Great fun. Wound up for the day by having dinner at a family friend's residence. The concert was arranged by Sri Karpaga Vinayakar Temple, Homebush, Sydney, Australia..

A Musical Evening - 10th April

2010-04-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

It was a poolside dinner at Le Royal Meridien, and the guests included some of the most prominent persons in Chennai, including Smt. Aruna Sairam, Sri Narayanan of Seventh Channel, Madan Bob, A.R. Raihanah among others. The party was hosted by Mr. Ravishankar of Bharani Minerals as a thank you gesture for the AR Rahman Salute concert.
I had the rare honour of performing unplugged some of the melodious songs of AR Rahman before Smt. Aruna Sairam and Mr. Sairam. They said they loved it, and Aruna amma said "Hai Raama" in Pantuvarali is one of her favourites from the film Rangeela.
It was a nice breezy evening and the Mouna Ragam orchestra had much to offer, with Srimathumitha singing "Porale Ponnuthayee" and "Idhu Varai" soulfully.
Aruna Sairamji has heard my Classical music and all my rasikas know by now that I am greatly inspired by her music and persona, but I shall not forget this day when she sat back and enjoyed my film music offering as well.

Salute to A R Rahman

2010-04-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

On 4th April, Kamarajar Arangam was packed to capacity. The occassion was a celebration of ARR's victories in the world of music. Various popular singers presented ARR's best songs. I had the honour of presenting "Maduraikku Pogathedi" from Azhagiya Tamizh Magan, a Vijay starrer (a prelude to "En Ucchi Mandaila!!). ARR's sister Raihanah was at the helm of affairs, meticulous in co-ordination. Well organised show. The back-stage was a fun place what with singers including Mano sir, myself, Prasanna, Velmurugan, Anantu, Ganga, and others jiving with the music.
ARR rocks!!