For violinist R.K. Shriramkumar, Madras is special in myriad ways

Madras is an irresistible emotion. Having been born and raised in this niche corner of the planet, it has, quite naturally, permeated every cell of my being, says violinist R.K. Shriramkumar.

This is a city that has always welcomed into its fold, with much fondness and magnanimity, a multitude of cultures and traditions. I deem it a blessing to have been raised in Madras, a city that has the perfect blend of hallowed heritage and modern thought.

Though notorious for the scorching summer heat, I still consider its weather scape to be simply salubrious.

Coming together during trying moments is one of the most admirable traits that characterises its spirit.

The unparalleled cultural capital that Madras is, it has nurtured the greatest talents of music, dance, theatre and the cine world.

Spiritual and religious legacies have greatly been fostered here. I have been blessed with the best of gurus, whose sheer presence has made other cities highly envious of Madras.

Memories of spending countless hours at various venues, including my gurus’ homes, Sri Sharadamba temple on Venkatanarayana road, PSBB and Vivekananda College – my Alma Maters, the Music Academy, Srinivasa Sastri hall, Ragasudha, Marina beach, on PTC buses and autos, at the Central and Egmore railway stations, shopping hubs in T. Nagar, the temple of Kapaleeswarar and Karpagambal and the Mada streets around them, and more, will always remain much cherished.

My first-ever concert on Shankara Jayanti day with my friend Vijay Siva; my surprise debut at the Music Academy, accompanying Nagalakshmi Lakshmanan; my maiden concerts with doyens such as D.K. Jayaraman, D.K. Pattammal, M.S. Subbulakshmi, T. Brinda and T. Mukta, M. Balamuralikrishna and V.V. Subrahmanyam, accompanying Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer and M.S. Subbulakshmi singing in tandem, my association with YACM and many more memorable events took place here.

It is no wonder that Madras is special to me in myriad ways – both professional and personal.

(As told to Deepa H. Ramakrishnan)