From
time immemorial Chennai is the venue because
this metropolis offers better scope in all
aspects. The myriad Sabhas encourages the
budding and Experienced artistes by giving
them an opportunity to perform.
December
time is festive time here. Carnatic music
which was nourished by
“Cauveryin mainthangal and pudalvigal”
had Tanjore as its fortress years back. The
rice bowl of Tamilnadu – Tanjore, and
its neighbouring hamlets echoed with “SA
RE GA MA” The cauvery delta reverberated
with mellifluous music.
With the urbanization of villages many shifted
to Chennai. Music which is an integral part
of many lives found expression in them. They
started practicing this rich cultural heritage
at their houses. There were many patron and
Connoisseurs of finearts who wanted to promote
music and dance. Since Chennai was blessed
with a salubrious climate in December (those
days) they thought it best to hold concerts
during this month.
The
cultural hub of Chennai Mylapore witnessed
a plethora of cultural and spiritual activities
during December. In the days of the British
Raj people had time since their masters were
away in England for Christmas. Thus they wanted
to listen to concerts.
As years rolled by many sabhas in Chennai
cropped up. But at present suburban sabhas
are doing yeomen service to promote our culture.
Our
Indian diaspora scattered overseas make it
their prerogative to visit Chennai during
the music festival. The zest and enthusiasm
with which it is celebrated is amazing. Chennaiities
vie with one another to attend cutcheries.
For some it is a re-union of some sort. Auditorium
is a place of meeting friends and relatives.
For many the season conjures up image of glittering
diamond jewellery and rustling silk sarees
owned by ladies.
The aroma of piping hot filter coffee and
mouth watering delicacies prepared in the
cafes in the auditorium not only invites the
audience but also the outsiders.
The music multitude eagerly waits for yet
another annual event which they consider a
MEGA EVENT.
