• Home
  • Mridanga Mela

Mridanga Mela

Mridanga Mela

Sri Korambu Subrahmanian Namboothiri is credited with introducing Mridangamela to the world of music. In 1978, during Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamikal's visit to Peruvanam temple, Sri Subrahmanian Namboothiri orchestrated a mesmerizing Mridangam performance featuring his disciples. Swamikal was elated and bestowed his blessings, encouraging them to continue this tradition. This marked the birth of Mridangamela, a captivating event that captivates not only musicians but also the general public, as it involves disciples of all age groups. Like the rhythmic scheme in chenda , mridangamela is a practical proof that a self constructed percussion is also possible on mridanga too.Without giving up the scientific aspect, it has been organised in a more enjoyable way for the listeners especially for women and children. Mridangamela upholds Pudukkottai style, unlike the Thanjavur style which is more popular in kerala. It is the abundance of rhythms that this Pudukkottai style allows which make mridangamela a seamless performance. Its purity of effect is the overall beauty of different rhythms coming together, more than figures. This grand spectacle was showcased in renowned temples across cities like Bhopal, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Madurai, and many others, leaving audiences enthralled with the beauty of the Mridangam artistry.