Malladi Suri Babu
Born in Dubacherla, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, Malladi Suri Babu had his initial training from his father Malladi Srirama Murthy, who was a Carnatic musician and Harikatha exponent. He later came under the guidance of Voleti Venkateswaralu, who taught him a wide range of compositions. He began accompanying his guru in a number of concerts and came to be recognised as a torchbearer of his tradition. He also learnt padams, javalis and compositions of the Carnatic Trinity from Dr. Sripada Pinakapani.
An ‘A Top’ grade artist for All India Radio and Doordarshan, Suri Babu has been performing regularly in these mediums and also on concert platforms. He has set to music the works of composers of the past and has also published books of songs with notation. His legacy is being carried forward by his sons, Sriram Prasad and Ravikumar, referred to as Malladi Brothers.
Udaiyalur Kalyanaraman
Udaiyalu Kalyanaraman has become synonymous with namasankirtanam. Born in Mayiladuthurai, Kalyanaraman underwent conventional education, qualifying himself with M.A. and B Ed. degrees. He simultaneously trained in bhajanai singing under Tiruvidaimarudur Venkatarama Bhagavatar.
Kalyanaraman’s career has taken him to several locations in India and abroad. He has released numerous CDs, the ones he released for children proving to be immensely popular.
His work has been recognised by the Government of India, which appointed him in 2013 as a Member of the Governing Body of the South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur. He has instituted the Bhagavatha Seva Trust, which supports aged Bhagavatars and bhajan artists with pensions and annuities.
