Smt. ARUNA PRABHA RANGANATHAN

Introduction

Aruna Prabha Ranganathan, a renowned Carnatic musician, is celebrated for her versatile voice and rare repertoire. Trained in the timeless legacy of "Dhanammal Baani", she has dedicated over 50 years to the pursuit of this great art. She currently resides in Chennai.

Education

• BA Hons (Economics)
• Chartered Accountancy

Musical Background

Aruna belongs to a family steeped in Carnatic music for four generations. Her grand-aunt was schooled under the legendary Maharajapuram Sri Viswanatha Iyer, and her mother was a student of Vidwan Sri T R Balu and an "A grade" artiste in Air Ceylon.

Nurtured in this rich ecosystem, Aruna began her formal training at age six and has spent six decades as a teacher, curator, organizer, and performer.

Gurus (Teachers)

Her initial training was under Sri Harihara Bagavadar, Sri Sankara Bagavadar, and Sri Vaidyanatha Bagavadar in Mumbai.

Under the guidance of Vidushi Smt. Alamelu Mani, Aruna mastered over a hundred krithis, including rare Tamil Padams and Javalis of the Veena Dhanammal Parampara.

After moving to Chennai in 1984, she spent 22 years under Bombay Sri S. Ramachandran, honing technical concert skills, Manodharmam, and Virutham singing. She also received direct lessons from Smt. Brindamma in 1985.

Guided by Sri Kotilingam and Sri Vaithilingan, she specialized in Tamil Isai, including Thirupugazh and over 120 Thevarams.

Achievements & Positions

• AIR President's Gold Medal
• "A" Grade Artist of All India Radio, Chennai
• Trustee, Rukmini Arts & Music Trust (since 1996)
• Director, RR Sabha Arts Academy, Mylapore