The second edition of the Tyagaraja Utsavam Belgium was held on February 9. The cold weather did not deter the spirit of the 170 Indian music aficionados who came to attend the event. It was organised by IndiRaga, a cultural organisation showcasing Indian classical music and dance. The organisation has been working towards creating awareness about Indian classical arts among NRI children.

The ambience was perfect — a photo of the Music Trinity, brass lamps and audience dressed in vibrant colours. The performers, instrumentalists and vocalists, were Indians living in Belgium.

The event included group rendition of the Pancharatna kritis and other compositions by adults. They performed to mridangam and violin accompaniment.

The instrumental round that followed included two violinists (playing ‘Sara Sara Samaraika’ in Kuntalavarali and ‘Garudagama’ in Nagaswarali), a bansuri artiste (composition in Durga), ‘Alaipayudhe’ was played on the keyboard and bass guitar. The much-applauded tani among mridangam players featured Paris-based Balakumaran Paramalingam, a disciple of Guru Karaikudi Mani. While the flute and violin renditions were soothing, the electrical keyboard and bass guitar added a modern touch to the traditional songs.

In the build-up to the event, practice sessions were held for more than two months.

The four charismatic women behind the IndiRaga are Krithika Balasubramanian, Jyothsna Krishnan, Aparna Srinivasan and Archana Srinivasan. Their efforts have made it possible to enjoy these concerts in Belgium for the last few years.