Mysore/Mysuru: Chairman of Kannada Development Authority (KDA) Dr. Purushotham Bilimale has said, “Bengaluru and Mysuru are like two eyes, having prospered in the realm of fine arts.”

He was speaking during the programme organised in commemoration of Sarod maestro Pandit Rajeev Taranath and theatre person Na. Rathna (Dr. N. Rathna), by Dhwani Foundation at Ganabharathi’s Veene Seshanna Bhavan on Adichunchanagiri Road in city recently.

Most of the activities related to folklore, literature, theatre, painting, modern theatre, classical music, dance, social discussions and spirituality are held in Mysuru region. Both Taranath and Rathna have had their share in contributing to such activities, who were like two eyes among several intellects in the world.

Taranath was a free spirited person, who never held on to a particular stance or profession. He was always in search of something new and was taking a stand in favour of momentary truth, which made him a rare personality. So, Taranath was expressing his opinions over issues plaguing the society. It gives pleasure to describe him as first among the profound intellectuals of 20th century, said Bilimale.

“I have taught several students from various States about the duo’s achievements. Even now I am remembering them, by speaking about them emotionally. Taranath had also scored music for the films like Samskara, Pallavi, Khandavideko Mamsavideko and other language films,” said Bilimale.

Rajeev Taranath was a model for Guru-Shishya tradition in Indian music lineage, which is again a matter of happiness. He was teaching music to others, without expecting anything in return. He was giving more impetus to teaching and it would be wise, if the achievements of such a personality is brought out in the form of a book, suggested Bilimale.

Writer Shylaja Venugopal recalled that, she had shared a bond with Rajeev Taranath for 13 years. He was prescient in his thoughts about music and literature. He was quick to correct any errors in composition of ragas. He was always discussing about sensitivity in life and expectations of the society.

Former Chairmen of Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) H.V. Rajeev and Yashaswi Somashekar, President of Mysuru District Kannada Sahitya Parishat Maddikere Gopal and Sachin Hampi were present.

Rajeev Taranath was in the prime of his youth, when he was regularly visiting our house. At the age of 20, he had gained recognition as a vocalist and was always in search of something new in the field of music. If he had a liking for any music style, he was eager to learn it. He was always considering himself as a student at every level. While myself and Na. Rathna studied BA Honours in Maharaja’s Degree College, there was a taboo on girls speaking to boys that time. However, the only way of communication among us was a smile. Like him,  I also had interest in theatre. —H.R. Leelavathi, veteran light music singer