Intended to be a platform for children, teachers and parents to interact and inspire one another, the festival this time, took on the theme of ‘Girls are Superstars’. I happened to be a part of the inaugural concert – “Kannamma”.

Anil Srinivasan, Chennai based pianist, whom i look up to as my brother, brought the gang (myself, Vedanth Bharadwaj, Rakesh Raghunathan & Gurucharan) together, along with percussionist Jonathan Singer for an eclectic musical evening, featuring songs composed by poet Bharathiyar.

The virtuosity of the legendary poet, displayed in each one of his works, especially the ones on the empowerment of the girl child, was the major source of inspiration for us. Simple diction laden with persuasive messages – We put in the best of our efforts to match our music to this pattern the poet followed.

In keeping with the theme of the day, we chose popular compositions such as Ninnai Charan adaindhen, Chinnan Chiru Kiliye, Agni Kunju, Kaatu Veliyidai, Paayum Oli and Suttum Vizhi. Of these, I played the flute for Ninnai Charan, Agni Kunju and a solo on rag Panthuvarali.

The highlights of the concert however were the participation by young girls from Vidyodaya School (Chennai) in singing out the songs and also giving life to the evening, with dance performances. Even during the time of rehearsals, I couldn’t help but relive my childhood days through all the expressions, chatter and frivolity (doesn’t that make it art, arattai and aarpattam!) of those kids. Amidst tight schedules, working on this concert, actually provided as a stress-buster of sorts.

Vedanth’s vocal recital of a couple of Meera bhajans, Anil’s flawless rendition of melodies on the piano and Rakesh’s melifluous voice were held in high regard by the audience. And of course, the appreciation that came by my way, added to my strengths and humbled me as always.

The evening was indeed a wholesome treat for the child in me.