It was raining outside. But those who came to the concert of Amritha Murali at Hamsadhwani were treated to a shower of admirable classical music. With Padma Shankar and Kallidaikurichi Sivakumar on the same wavelength, the music was thoroughly enjoyable.
The song list:
Entho Prematho ………………. Surutti
Meru Samana Maya Malava Gowlai
Ninnu Vina Marigalada. Rithi Gowlai
Vazhi Maraithirukkuthe . Nattai Kurinji
Meenakshi Me mudham dehi. Purvi Kalyani
Slokam Kararavindena Padaravindam
The raga alapanas of Rithi Gowlai and Purvi Kalyani were elegant bringing out the raga swaroopa in all its classical beauty and revealing exquisite manodharma. Sung in a leisurely tempo , savouring the beauty of the sahitya , highlighting its poignant mood and without swaraprastharas, Vazhi Maraithirukkuthe just stole the hearts of the listeners.. Kalpana Swaras were offered for all the other Kirthanas were arresting in the typical Semmangudi mould.
What distinguishes Padma Shankar besides technical excellence and admirable support to the main artiste is a heightened aesthetic sense . enhancing the melodic appeal. Her raga solos and swara sallies showed her class.
Sivakumar’s subdued but masterful support added to the overall concert enjoyment
Amritha has come to stay as versatile classical artiste at the centre of the stage. One wished that she was allotted the prime time slot.