Pandit Rajiv Taranath is a household name in the field of Hindustani Classical music and more so because of his mastery over his chosen instrument ‘Sarod.’ He was initiated into his passionate domain at the young age of three by his father which rolled on into his acquiring mastery over the string instrument under the tutelage of the master-craftsman and giant of a musician Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.

Young Rajiv went to Bombay to meet his Master and followed him to Calcutta where he learnt the nuances of the instrument for six years and mastered the art in full measure. Accolades and honours have followed him in plenty but this has not dimmed his humility when it comes to playing the instrument.  

It is a well-known fact that he is a Padma Shri awardee as well as a Nadoja to name a few. Mysuru is lucky to have him choose it as his place of residence now.  

Pandit’s contribution to development of Hindustani Music in this part of the country and more so in Mysuru is substantial. My own experience tells me regarding this in that he has organised and encouraged young and upcoming youngsters from North Karnataka and Poona to come down to Mysuru and give concerts. He gives them substantial remuneration also. Nearly twenty such concerts have been arranged in the mini first floor hall (capacity 70-80) of this writer’s residence.     

About ten Music Sabhas of Mysuru have joined together to honour him as one of their own and felicitate him for his notable achievements. In this connection, a function has been arranged on Monday the 25th March at 6 pm at Navajyothi auditorium, JSS Women’s College in Saraswathipuram.

The chief guests for the function are Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamji of Suttur Mutt; Nadoja Dr. Chandrashekar Kambara, Chairman of Kendra Sahitya Academy; Ustad Fayaz Khan, Chairman of State Sangeetha Nrithya Academy and a leading exponent of Hindustani Music. It is requested that the cultural literati of our city attend the rare function in large numbers and make it a grand success. All are welcome.

—M.L. Krishnaswami