‘Dr. Ambedkar was fond of playing violin’

Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa inaugurates JSS Music Conference Sangeetha Sevanidhi Award presented to art patron S. Ramaprasad

Mysore/Mysuru: Social Welfare Minister and District In-charge Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa said that the architect of Indian Constitution, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, was very much fond of playing violin, especially when he was uber happy.

Dr. Mahadevappa was addressing the gathering of music connoisseurs after inaugurating 30th Music Conference, organised by JSS Sangeetha Sabha, in commemoration of previous pontiff of Suttur Mutt Dr. Sri Shivarathri Rajendra Swamiji at Navajyoti auditorium of JSS Women’s College, Saraswathipuram in the city on Tuesday.

“Before India became independent, Dr. Ambedkar was participating in the round-table discussions with the British. After the meeting, Dr. Ambedkar had a penchant for playing violin.  When Acharya Kripalani once asked Ambedkar the reason behind his extreme happiness, the latter replied, ‘Till now, Princely rule existed in India. Henceforth, the Government which is for the people, by the people and of the people, will be ruling the country.’ This meant, earlier the kings were born in the Palace. Henceforth, the kings will be born in ballot box,” said Dr. Mahadevappa, recalling the words of Dr. Ambedkar.

Like how Dr. Ambedkar was fond of music, music is an instrument of achievement. Likewise, Mahatma Gandhi was disseminating the message through prayer meets, added Dr. Mahadevappa.

Music is a therapy for stress and a message to the society, that is deemed impossible through words or speech, can be given through music. Such is the power of music, he observed, quoting the examples of Saint Kanakadasa, Saint           Haridasa and Saint Purandaradasa.

The senior pontiff of Suttur Mutt Sri Shivarathri Rajendra Samiji founded JSS Sangeeth Sabha Trust 30 years ago, setting a platform for several vocalists, thus conserving the Indian tradition,                             said Dr. Mahadevappa.

Art patron S. Ramaprasad was presented with Sangeetha Sevanidhi Award on the occasion.

Krishnaraja (KR) MLA T.S. Srivatsa released ‘Nada Namana’ journal.

The inaugural session was followed by a music concert of Conference Chair and Karnatak vocalist Vidu. Dr. T.S. Sathyavathi, accompanied by Vidu. Nalina Mohan on violin, Vid. K.U. Jayachandrarao on mridanga and Vid. V.S. Ramesh on morching.

‘Practicing of art improves proficiency’

Renowned Karnatak vocalist and Chairman of 30th Music Conference, Dr. T.S. Sathyavathi opined that, like how a tree stands on the strength of its roots, the proficiency of art lies in practicing the nuances of the art form.

During the course of learning, one should study deeply about the specialised art form. After strengthening the roots with the fine understanding of musical notes, the music should be nurtured, by studying other art forms, without denting the respect for the beauty of art. Such studies shall foster the strength of the roots, she added.

“To achieve success in the field of art, if the veteran exponents in the realm constantly support and guide the youngsters, the threat to the roots can be averted. The veterans should show wisdom in the matters of tradition and compassion in the matters of embracing modernity,” observed Dr. Sathyavathi.