Extremely happy to write the continuation of the feature on the legendary DKP as part of the Mahaan Media series. There is truly no end to what one can say about her extraordinary life and contribution to Carnatic music. What makes her journey even more remarkable is the way she broke barriers and redefined what was possible for a woman in her time. At a period when women faced countless social restrictions, especially around the time of Independence, her unwavering dedication, courage, and artistic conviction made her a trailblazer. She stood firm in her values, upheld patriotism, and carved a path that would inspire generations to come. DKP remains a shining example of strength, discipline, and musical brilliance.

Returning to the vibrant world of GCMA’s CAR initiative, one cannot help but marvel at the spectacular showcase presented recently, an ensemble of over 100 young SAC students, trained with remarkable dedication and precision. These children took to the prestigious stage of Sri Satguru Gnanananda Hall, Narada Gana Sabha, as part of the Bharath Sangeeth Uthsav, curated by Vid. KN Shashikiran, Carnatica, and Sri Parthasarathy Swami Sabha.

To perform at such a revered venue, one that has witnessed legendary viduṣi-s and vidvān-s for decades, is a dream many young artistes cherish. For these children, it was a defining moment, a rare experience that will remain etched in their memories and inspire their musical journey for years to come.

At the heart of this grand effort stands Viduṣi-s Nithyashree Mahadevan, whose unwavering passion and leadership have shaped the CAR initiative into a powerful platform for young talent. Her ability to bring together large groups of children, train them meticulously, and present them with flair reflects her deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of Carnatic musicians. This event undoubtedly adds yet another glorious feather to her cap.

Joining her on stage were esteemed musicians who elevated the performance with their presence and expertise:

• Vid. Lavanya Sundarraman (great-granddaughter of Smt. DKP and niece of Nithyashree),

• Vid. Vidya Kalyanaraman,

• Vid. Vasudha Ravi,

• Vid. Anahitha & Vid. Apoorva Ravindran,

• Vid. Trichur Rithu.
  
  

Complementing them were gifted young artistes—Kum. Yadushree Venkatesh, Kum. Supriya Raja, Kum. Ananthalakshmi Parur, and the Salem Kamakoti Sisters (Kum. Harini and Kum. Shrinidhi), adding freshness and youthful dynamism to the concert.

Together, they presented a vibrant assortment of tukkaḍa-s under the lively theme “Aḍaḍa Tukkaḍa.” The concert was a delightful tapestry of colour, rhythm, expressive singing, and joyous camaraderie. The stage glowed with youthful energy as children from various schools came together in perfect harmony. Their enthusiasm was infectious, their confidence inspiring.

The concert featured a beautifully curated selection of songs, beginning with Śaṅkaran Maganē, followed by a vibrant Nāmavali on Gaṇēśa in Malayamārutam. Next was a peppy Tiru̱ppāvai - Malē Maṇivaṇṇā, Purandaradāsa’s Veṅkaṭācala Nilayam, and Tiru̱vembāvai - Ādiyum Andamum, leading into the powerful Bhō Śambhō. This was followed by a Svara prelude by the kids and a graceful rendering of the Aṣṭapadi – Candana Carcita, after which the group presented Annamayyā’s Braḥmamokkaṭē, Śambhō Mahādēva, and the lively Kāṇa Kaṇṇāyiram Muruganai. They continued with Rāma Rāma in Candrajyōti, a vibrant composition of Viduṣi Nithyashree Mahadevan, along with the ever-loved Kuṟai Oṉṟum Illai and Ūttukkāḍu Veṅkaṭa Subbayyar’s Viśamakāra Kaṇṇan. The concert also included the expressive Jāvali – Smarasundarāṅguni, the lilting Kiḷikkani ‘Vaḷḷi kaṇavan’, the soulful Abhaṅg Runu Junu, Sītāram Bōlō Bōlō - Sāi Bhajan, the rhythmic Bomma Bomma, and concluded with the uplifting Bhārata Samudāyam.

Every piece performed was met with warm applause, but the highlight was not just the music, it was the spirit of unity, effort, and sheer joy that radiated from the stage. The auditorium brimmed with proud parents, emotional families, and appreciative rasikas who witnessed not just a performance, but the blossoming of young dreams.

This event was more than a concert, it was a celebration of art, discipline, culture, and community. It reaffirmed the power of collective effort and the transformative impact of dedicated mentorship. As the CAR initiative continues to grow, events like these stand as shining examples of what heartfelt guidance and enthusiastic participation can achieve.