‘Thanks to the city and its unique Margazhi season, my art found an anchor’

If I claimed I was made from Chennai, I couldn’t exaggerate! Chennai is not just the place where I live; Carnival vocalist Sudha Ragunathan said what I breathe, what I believe and ‘built me’.

I can define Chennai as a city of spirit and matter, where the modernity of tradition meets effortless grace, innate attraction and honorable simplicity.

Kanjeevaram silk flowing from the rich aroma of filter coffee; From the winding Marina Beach, where he can look at the silver and gold -shining waters under the burning sun, to the scattered roads with countless magnificent hotels, cafes and Chai Hubs; And Ragas and Thas’ floating floats of the cultural Sabhas stand tall and justify the inclusion of the UNESCO Creative Cities network for rich music tradition. The city has something for everyone.

The city and the unique Margazhi season gave me a identity, embraced me and nurtured me, and my art found such an anchor.

I may be traveling to the world’s most exotic country, but my heart always misses home – to the city and its warmth!

(As he told Deepa H. Ramakrishnan)