A sumptuous treat by the husband and wife duo UP Raju and Nagamani exuded an evening of mandolin magic at Thyaga Brahma Gana sabha , Vani Mahal.

After a sedate Saveri varnam Sarasuda in three speeds they slipped into Raghunayaka by Thyagaraja in Hamsadhwani. The swara sallies oozed with the essence of the raga. The short exposition of the raga Simhendra madhyamam for Pamara jana palini was brilliant that a rasika could discern the raga at the very outset.

A kriti by Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavathar in the rare raga Niroshta -Rajarajarajathe was an aural treat and was a refreshing musical experience. It is unique one as when prouncing the raga Niroshta the lips do not meet. The Chittaswaram a alter addition to the song was composed by the flautist Balasayee which embellishes the kriti.

In the elaborate Mohanam for Pavanutha by Thyagaraja which was the main stay of the Kutcheri the duo brought out the entire gamut of the raga vividly. Raju and Nagamani alternated showcasing the raga in varied dimensions. The kriti was aesthetically portrayed and the barrage of Swaras revealed their creative skill.

A Tillana in Madhuvanti was outstanding and it reminded one of Ambujam Krishna's Kandanal Mudhal which is in the same raga. They had perfect control over the instrument.

Salem Srinivasan on Mridangam and Trichy Murali on Ghatam , both disciples of Trichy Thayumanavan bolstered the spirit of the concert with their deft touches.

Mira
Dec 18th 2008

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