Mysuru boasts of a rich legacy of producing countless artistes and musicians who have made their mark globally. When we think of music, whether vocal or instrumental, we often remember the performers themselves. However, behind every great performance is a skilled instrument-maker, whose work is crucial but often overlooked.

While advanced technology has made Western instrument-makers and service providers more accessible, the craft of making traditional instruments like the Veena is still a rare skill.

Fortunately, Mysuru is home to one such craftsman — M.G. Rajesh of Sri Saraswathi Musical Works on Ramanuja Road. A fifth-generation Veena-maker, Rajesh carries on the legacy of his father. Rajesh, the son of the late Veena-maker N. Gangadhar and Shantha, resides in Gundurao Nagar, Mysuru. He has a sister, M.G. Archana, and is married to N. Shruthi, a homemaker.

The Veena, revered as the ‘Queen of Instruments’ and recognised as the National Musical Instrument of India, holds a timeless place in Indian tradition. Associated with the Goddess Saraswathi, the Veena is steeped in spiritual significance and is integral to the Karnatak music tradition. Today, the Veena has evolved to include digital and electronic versions, finding its place in diverse genres, from classical Karnatak to jazz and rock concerts.

Gangadhar (son of Veena-maker N. Lingachar and Nagamma), who learnt the art of Veena making from his maternal grandfather Veene Puttachar, crafted and repaired numerous Veenas for renowned musicians such as Veena Doreswamy Iyengar, M.J. Srinivasa Iyengar, Chitraveena Ravikiran, M.K. Saraswathi, Veena Rajalakshmi and many others. Gangadhar was conferred with titles such as ‘Veena Shilpa Chatura’ and ‘Kalaadeepti’ besides being felicitated by numerous music organisations.

Following Gangadhar’s passing at the age of 56 on Dec. 25, 2013, his son Rajesh took up the mantle. As a child, Rajesh had shown a keen interest in the nuances of Veena making, helping his father during his free time despite pursuing a corporate job after completing his degree.

Quit corporate job

After his father’s death, Rajesh left his corporate job to dedicate himself fully to the family’s craft, ensuring the continuation of his father’s legacy with the same passion and dedication.

The family has a long tradition of Veena making.

Gangadhar’s great-grandfather, Puttadasachar, served as a Veena maker in the Court of Mysore. Gangadhar’s mother, Nagamma, was deeply devoted to this craft and often encouraged her son to uphold the family tradition.

Rajesh completed his primary education at Shreekanta School in Agrahara, his high school at JSS School in Lakshmipuram, and pursued his PUC and B.Com at D. Banumaiah’s College, followed by an M.Com from KSOU.

He initially took up a job in the accounts section at a private company but ultimately chose to follow in his father’s footsteps, becoming a full-time Veena maker after Gangadhar’s passing.

Observation, learning

Rajesh reflects on his introduction to the art of Veena-making: “During my school holidays, I used to sit in the shop with my father, observing him work. After completing my degree, I spent almost three years continuously at the shop. Later, I worked in the accounts section of a private company. But after my father passed away in 2013, I returned to the shop to carry on his trade.”

“I learnt Veena repair by watching my father. After school, I would stay in the shop as long as my dad was there. He taught me the major repair techniques. I was also sent to Mridanga classes when I was in 4th standard. I completed Junior level but discontinued during Senior level. From PUC onwards, I would come to the shop whenever I was free and assist my dad with his work.”

Discussing his musical background, Rajesh shared, “I completed the Junior level in Mridanga under Vid. P.G. Lakshminarayana (PGL) and was pursuing Senior classes with H.L. Shivashankar Swamy of Laya Vadya Pratishtana. However, I had to discontinue to focus on my father’s trade after his passing. I later joined Veena classes under Vid. R.K. Padmanabhan to refine my skills.”

Woods and strings

On the process of Veena manufacturing, he says, “We use jackfruit wood or rosewood to make Veenas. The strings are sourced from Kolkata or Mumbai through agents. Unfortunately, the craftsmanship isn’t as robust as it was during my father’s time. In Mysuru, there are a couple of Veena sales showrooms, but I am the only manufacturer here after my father.”

When asked about his satisfaction with the profession, he remarks, “In this line of work, I don’t face many problems, but I also don’t live a luxurious life. It’s manageable. My father is my role model, and as the only Veena-maker in Mysuru after him, I want to continue serving in this field, just as he did.”

In addition to making Veenas, Rajesh, who has ‘Tantivadya Naadasiri’ title to his credit,  also has expertise in repairing all stringed instruments including violin, guitar, mandolin and sitar. —BNR

Going Global

With the advent of electronic and electrical advancements, the Veena has evolved from a chamber prayer instrument to a sound that resonates in stadiums, travelling worldwide and bringing its melody to even the most remote corners of the globe, says Dr. Jayanthi Kumaresh, India’s global torchbearer for the Saraswathi Veena, in one of her TEDx Talks.