Sruthilayaa School of Music Raises Over $10,000 for Cancer Research with RAGAS for a Cause- "Celebrating India's Linguistic Diversity"

The Sruthilayaa School of Music hosted a captivating evening of Indian classical music, a fundraiser event titled "RAGAS FOR A CAUSE- Celebrating India's Linguistic Diversity" on March 1 at Keefe Tech School, Framingham. In a vibrant celebration of India's rich linguistic and cultural heritage, this enchanting evening brought together a mesmerizing array of classical music performances.

The students and families of Sruthilayaa School of Music brought the spirit of "It is in giving that we receive" to life, enchanting the audience with classical music while raising over $10,000 to support efforts for cancer research and cure through for the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society.

Guided by Smt. Uma Sankar, the event showcased ragas—a creative expression of India's rich regional and linguistic diversity. Months of rigorous practice culminated in an inspiring performance, highlighting improvisation and the dedication of advanced students.

This vibrant celebration of India's heritage united music, philanthropy, and community in a truly unforgettable evening.

The event, attended by hundreds of music enthusiasts, affirms the power of music to inspire change and serve community causes.

The concert opened with a featured solo performance by Sahana Sankar, who rendered Taaramar Kondraiyum from Abhirami Andhaadhi with poise and devotion. Under the guidance of Smt. Kamakshi Kalyanasundaram, Sahana showcased her deep understanding of the classical idiom through Enduku Dayaraadura in Thodi and concluded with a spirited Kamas Thillana by Lalgudi Jayaraman. Her versatility and command over the Khamas raga were evident. She was accompanied by Lalitha Kalyanasundaram on violin, making her debut with remarkable confidence (student of Sri Raghul Ravichandran), and Srivatsan Mukuntraj on mridangam, a disciple of Dr. Pravin Sitaram, who provided adept rhythmic support.

Following the featured concert, senior students of Smt. Uma Sankar delivered a captivating group presentation with a soulful rendition of "Maha Ganapate" in Hamsadhwani, invoking Lord Ganesha's blessings.

The evening continued with "Janani Ninuvina" in Reetigowlai, where intricate rhythms and expressive nuances brought the composition to life. The performers' deep connection to the ragam and mastery of complex thalam mesmerized the audience.

A standout moment was "Sakala Graha Bala" in Atana by Purandara Dasa, featuring the dynamic Khanda Chapu thalam.

The evening featured "Vasudevayani" in Kalyani by Saint Tyagaraja, where Adi tala anchored its melodic richness.

Shri Guru Guha in Sudha Saveri by Sri Muthuswami Dikshitar resonated deeply with the audience, performed with devotion and skill.

The program continued with "Rathna Kanchukadharini" in Kamboji by Sri Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavatar, its grandeur brought to life through nuanced interpretation.

Students showcased exceptional artistry, seamlessly transitioning through alaapana, neraval, and manodharmam. Their mastery of swarams and alapanas enriched each composition, reflecting dedication and rigorous preparation. Their dedication and artistry were on full display, captivating the audience with their musical skill and creativity. The intense hours of practice were apparent in the finesse and authenticity of their show. 

The evening's highlight, Arabhi Manam in Ragamalika, showcased intricate ragam transitions, executed with remarkable agility.

Payoji Maine Meera Bhajan in Khamaj by Meera Bai was performed with deep emotion, complemented by rhythmic instrumental grace.

The night concluded with a Thillana in Maand by Sri Lalgudi G. Jayaraman, brimming with rhythmic complexity and infectious energy.

A serene Mangalam featuring Harivarasanam in Madhyamavati offered a reflective, reverent close to the event.

These final pieces encapsulated the essence of the evening, leaving the audience in high spirits. The celebratory conclusion was a fitting end to a night that celebrated India's rich linguistic and musical heritage. 

The performers' deep connection to the ragas and their skillful handling of the complex thalams brought the compositions to life. 

Additionally, the program featured a captivating group presentation by talented young musicians. Their performance culminated in a heartfelt rendition of "Bhagyada Lakshmi Baramma" in Madhyamavathi, composed by the revered Purandaradasa, marking a memorable finale.  

A felicitation and certificate ceremony honored the performers, followed by a delightful dinner where attendees mingled and shared their experiences.

A cancer survivor's inspiring talk highlighted resilience, adding depth to the event's mission.

Funded in part by the Shrewsbury Cultural Council (Mass Culture Council), the event raised funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), supporting the fight against cancer.

All proceeds were donated to LLS during the Sruthilayaa School of Music annual day event on April 5th, supporting the fight against cancer.

A dedicated team of parent volunteers, technicians, and organizers worked behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience, preserving the event's essence for posterity.

Credits and Performers:

Performers of the Group Presentation:

Ananya Arvind, Anish Pochiraju, Rithika Sunchu, Shreya Gopinath, Bhavya Kaamakolanu, Sriraaga chillara, Vibhasini Vidyaprakash, SuryaSavitri Nishar, Geethika Velagapudi, Madhumita Raghu and Lavanya Ganapathy wonderfully supported by Ananth Gomattam (Student of Gaurishankar Chandrashekar) and Srivatsan Mukuntraj (Student of Dr. Pravin Sitaram) and accompanied on the violin by Ananta Kaundinya (Student of Sri. Raghul Ravichandran).

Other performers include Megha Vivekanandan, Trishika Ravindran, Varnika Navaneethan, Avyaya Arvind, Tanya Satish, Yeshika Muripindi and Lauhitya Cheravu.

Photography: Jaison Jose (Cocoon media)

Videography: Krisp photos

Sound: Jawed Wahid and team

MCs: Srividya Ramachandran and Sutikshna Veeravalli

Event Planning: Navaneethan Jaypal and Arvind Naganathan

A special thanks to all the Sruthilayaa school family for their immense support throughout the event!

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