Legendary mridangam player T.K. Murthy to receive prestigious Chembai Award

T.K. Murthy, the celebrated mridangam virtuoso, will receive the Sree Guruvayurappan Chembai Award in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Carnatic music spanning nearly nine decades. The honour comes as a testament to the senior musician's profound influence on the classical percussion tradition in South India.

Murthy, who is 103 years old, has been a Padma awardee and remains one of the most respected figures in Carnatic music circles. His mastery of the mridangam—the traditional South Indian drum—has made him an institution unto himself, mentoring generations of musicians and elevating the art form through his performances and innovations.

The award will be formally presented during the inaugural Chembai Music Festival, scheduled for November 6. Kerala's Minister of Culture K. Muraleedharan will inaugurate the festival, underscoring the state's commitment to preserving and promoting classical music traditions.

The Chembai Award, named after the legendary Carnatic musician Sree Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, represents one of the highest recognitions in classical Indian music. The festival is expected to draw musicians and enthusiasts from across the country, celebrating the rich heritage of Carnatic music.