Jayanthi Kumaresh: Sangita Kalanidhi 2026

Veena Maestro Jayanthi Kumaresh To Receive Sangita Kalanidhi

Why in the News ?

Renowned Saraswati veena exponent Jayanthi Kumaresh will receive the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award at the 100th Annual Conference and Concerts of The Music Academy, Chennai, recognising her significant contribution to Carnatic music and the revival of the veena tradition.

Jayanthi Kumaresh: Sangita Kalanidhi 2026

Prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi Award Announcement:

  • The Music Academy, Chennai, announced that celebrated veena artist Jayanthi Kumaresh will receive the Sangita Kalanidhi award, one of the highest honours in Carnatic classical music.
  • The award will be presented during the 100th Annual Conference and Concerts of the Academy, scheduled from December 15, 2026, to January 1, 2027.
  • As part of the honour, the awardee will preside over the academic sessions of the conference and receive the award during the Sadas ceremony on January 1.
  • This recognition highlights her contribution to promoting the Saraswati veena, an iconic instrument of Indian classical music.
  • Notably, a veena player has been chosen for the award after a gap of 34 years, making the honour especially significant.

Contributions of Jayanthi Kumaresh to Carnatic Music

  • Jayanthi Kumaresh belongs to the renowned Lalgudi musical lineage, one of the most respected families in Carnatic music.
  • She initially trained under her mother Rajalakshmi and later under Padmavathi Ananthagopalan, before learning from legendary veena maestro Balachander.
  • She also received guidance from eminent musicians including Lalgudi G. Jayaraman, K. Brinda, Thanjavur Sankara Iyer, and T.R. Subramanian.
  • Known for her innovative style, she has worked to revitalise interest in the Saraswati veena among younger audiences.
  • She has also collaborated with prominent musicians, including tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, expanding the reach of Indian classical music globally.

About Music Academy Awards and Carnatic Traditions:

●      The Music Academy, Chennai, established in 1928, is one of the most prestigious institutions promoting Carnatic music and classical dance.

●      The Sangita Kalanidhi award is considered the highest recognition in Carnatic music, awarded annually to outstanding musicians.

●      The Academy also confers several other honours such as Nritya Kalanidhi, Sangita Kala Acharya, TTK Awards, and Musicologist Awards.

●      In 2026, Bharatanatyam dancer Narendra G. will receive the Nritya Kalanidhi award at the Academy’s 20th Annual Dance Festival.

●      The Saraswati veena, often regarded as India’s national instrument, holds a central place in South Indian classical music traditions.