Young vocalist Adithi Prahlad delivered a vibrant and engaging Karnatak music concert at the scenic Suttur Mutt, located at the foot of Chamundi Hill recently.
She was ably supported by the talented C.V. Shruthi on violin and seasoned percussionists Vid. G.S. Ramanujam (mridanga) and Vid. V.S. Ramesh (morching).
Adithi, a disciple of stalwarts R.K. Padmanabha and H.S. Sudheendra, is known for her confidence and rich manodharma (creative imagination). Her musical ideas translated seamlessly into expressive singing throughout the concert.
She began with the varna ‘Jalajaksha’ in Raga Hamsadhwani (Adi Tala), setting an energetic tone. This was followed by ‘Jalandhara,’ a graceful composition by Sri Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar in Gambhira Nata. Her rendition was marked by crisp kalpana swaras, reflecting her enthusiasm and clarity of thought. A brief raga alapana in Kamavardhini led into Tyagaraja’s ‘Shiva Shiva Shiva Enarada.’
The lively swara exchange between Adithi and Shruthi was particularly captivating. The duo then presented Basavanna’s popular vachana ‘Vachanadalli Naamaamrutha Tumbi’ in Raga Abheri, delivered with sensitivity and finesse.
The main piece of the evening was Raga Shankarabharana —majestic and expansive. Adithi’s treatment of the raga showcased her strong manodharma, with brisk phrases highlighting her energy and command. Shruthi’s raga essay was equally rich, her sweet and melodious bowing adding depth to the presentation.
The kriti ‘Akshayalinga Vibho’ by Muthuswami Dikshitar followed, rendered with majestic dignity. The laya vinyasa by Ramanujam and Ramesh was another highlight — mature, balanced and aesthetically pleasing.
The concert concluded with another Basavanna vachana, ‘Nudidare Muttina Haaradantirabeku’ in Raga Durga. Adithi Prahlad undoubtedly emerges as a promising young vocalist with a bright future.
—Dr. Rama V. Bennur
