In recent times, classical music seems to have reversed a trend by making many youngsters return to India from the U.S., especially Chennai, Ramnath Venkat Bhagavath is one of them.
He was among the five finalists in The Hindu Saregama MS Subbulakshmi Award 2013. Ramnath has an impressive academic record. He is also interested in Tamil literature and composing music. He shared his views during a conversation. Excerpts.
On his academics
I had my schooling in Chennai and then moved to Toronto York University to do my under graduation in Applied Mathematics and later, post graduation in University of South California, Los Angeles, in Operations Research Engineering. I got a job in the US. But, I realised that I cannot concentrate on both, work and classical music. Hailing from a family of musicians on my mother’s side, I decided to settle in Chennai.
On his musical journey
It was my grandmother, Meenakshi Ramanathan, disciple of K.S. Narayanaswami (veena), and Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, who ushered me into classical music at a young age. Later, I trained under A.S. Murali (ghatam artist and a vocalist), and now I’m learning from Prof. S.R. Janakiraman. I had my lessons through skype when I was abroad and during vacations, I would fly down to Chennai. I have performed in Canada and the U.S. on many occasions. For the past two years, I have been giving concerts in Chennai.
Themystic power of Carnatic music
It is a complex system with many raga forms and tala structures. It virtually has the nuances of all musical forms.
On his experience with ‘The Hindu Saregama’
It was an experience to be cherished. Such programmes promote talent. I have participated in Reality Shows too. But my classical approach to music does not fit into that category.
On criticism
Reviews, in one way, provide publicity for the artists. I feel an unbiased review and subtle suggestions can help the performer. And, the artists should know how to take criticism in their stride.
Five years on…
I want to widen the boundaries of the classical genre, make it more secular and present songs on nature, emotions and other facets of life. I have written and tuned some songs on the sun, moon, air and salt, to name a few. (He sings a few lines from them).
Other interests
I am an Assistant Manager in Bharat Axa General Insurance. I am also pursuing my Actuarial Studies. I love Tamil literature and poetry. I wrote Tamil lyrics and composed music for the Los Angeles-based contemporary Indian band, Riffs n Raagas, titled ‘Yatra.’I provided vocal support for the background score, composed by David Philipson, for a short film, ‘Silent Water,’ released in 2011 in New York. I scored fifth rank in the National level Math Olympiad conducted by Sastra in 2011. I have penned Venbas, Viruththappa, Andhadhis on several subjects. I am learning astrology now.
