T. Rukmini
T. Rukmini | |
|---|---|
| Born | Bangalore, Karnataka, India |
| Occupation(s) | Carnatic music violinist, vocalist |
| Years active | 1950s–present |
T. Rukmini is an Indian Carnatic music violinist and vocalist, recognized for her contributions to South Indian classical music over a career spanning more than six decades.[1] Known for her technical prowess and emotive performances, she has accompanied many prominent Carnatic musicians and earned accolades such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award[2] and the Sangita Kalanidhi.[3]
Early life and training
[edit]T. Rukmini was born and raised in Bangalore, Karnataka, where she began her musical training in both vocal music and the violin. She studied the violin under Vidwan R.R. Keshavamurthy, a noted musician who shaped her early career. Her talent was recognized early, leading her to pursue the violin professionally.
Career
[edit]Rukmini made her debut as a teenager at the Town Hall in Bangalore, accompanying the renowned flautist T.R. Mahalingam.[1] This marked her emergence as a leading accompanist during a period when female instrumentalists were rare.[1] She performed with prominent Carnatic musicians, including Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, S. Balachander, M.D. Ramanathan, Maharajapuram Santhanam, M.S. Subbulakshmi, M.L. Vasanthakumari, and D.K. Pattammal.[1] Beyond accompaniment, she has given solo violin recitals and vocal concerts, including at the Sangeet Sammelan and a notable performance in Udupi featuring compositions by Purandara Dasa, which she set to tune.[1] She has also composed music for Andal’s Tiruppavai and songs by Subramania Bharati.[1] Her international performances include a tour of the United States, where she again collaborated with Flute Mali.[1] Her playing has been praised for its virtuosity[4] and sweetness, with critics highlighting her ability to enhance both solo and accompaniment roles.[5]
Awards and honors
[edit]T. Rukmini has received several awards, including:
- Sangita Kalanidhi from the Madras Music Academy in 2013, recognizing her lifetime achievement in Carnatic music.[3]
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her contributions as a violinist.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g "A long musical innings". The Hindu. 25 November 2016. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ a b "T. Rukmini - Sangeet Natak Akademi Award" (PDF). Sangeet Natak Akademi. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ a b "Sangita Kalanidhi for Carnatic vocalist". The New Indian Express. 3 January 2013. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ "Display of virtuosity". The Hindu. 19 January 2013. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ "Her voice was as sweet as her bow". The Hindu. 11 June 2020. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ "Musicians felicitated". Deccan Herald. 8 February 2022. Retrieved 3 April 2025.
- ^ "Playing right notes". Deccan Herald. 15 February 2022. Retrieved 3 April 2025.