Karnatik musician and mridangam player A V Anand.
Credit: DH PHOTO/ANNA FATHIMA
To preserve the vast musical legacy of mridangam maestro A V Anand, his students are launching a website — layananda.com — featuring over 900 of his rhythmic compositions.
The launch, scheduled for Saturday, will also mark his 90th birthday and honour his contribution to Karnatik music.
Anand’s playing style is known as the ‘A V Anand Bani’ or “left-hand dominant style” as he likes to put it. His playing draws inspiration from stalwarts like Palghat Mani Iyer and, specially, Palani Subramaniam Pillai, whose performances deeply influenced his musical identity.
His career has spanned about eight decades. His interest in mridangam began early. As a child, he would tap out rhythms on household vessels. Recognising his potential, his parents placed him under the tutelage of ghatam maestro K S Manjunath, whose rigorous and methodical training shaped Anand’s artistry.
At 12, Anand made his concert debut in 1948, accompanying the legendary violinist Mysore T Chowdiah in Kanyakumari. This performance marked the beginning of many collaborations with Karnatik greats, including M Balamuralikrishna, M L Vasanthakumari, D K Pattammal, and Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer.
Anand has toured countries such as the US, UK, and Malaysia, helping introduce the beauty of Indian rhythms to global audiences.
A teacher since 1958, Anand places great emphasis on learning from a guru and the importance of consistent practice. He remains critical of online learning, arguing that it lacks the depth and personal connection necessary for mastering the art.
Anand believes a lot needs to be done — from integrating classical music into school programmes to increasing engagement from academic and cultural departments.
‘Layananda’, on June 28, 9.30 am, at Pathi Sabhangana, N R Colony Rama Mandira. Entry free. Call 99868 70369.