Cauvery Aarti: D K Shivakumar writes to music composers for a song

Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has written to renowned music composers - Arjun Janya, Hamsalekha, and Sadhu Kokila - inviting them to compose a special devotional song for the upcoming Cauvery Aarti — a spiritual and cultural event inspired by the Ganga Aarti and dedicated to honouring the river Cauvery, the state's lifeline.

Copies of the letters, released by the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Friday, highlighted that the state government had already decided to organise the Cauvery Aarti on a grand scale and has allocated funds to support the initiative.

In the letters, Shivakumar emphasises the need for a vibrant, soulful composition that encapsulates the spiritual grandeur, folk traditions, and devotional spirit associated with Mother Cauvery.

"The song is envisioned as a modern yet tradition-rooted tribute that resonates with contemporary audiences while preserving the river’s heritage," he stated and added “The goal is to artistically represent the legacy of Cauvery through music that resonates with changing times while preserving its traditions."

The composition is expected to vividly portray the divine image of Mother Cauvery, reflect her ecological and cultural richness, and convey her glory to both national and international audiences. The government plans to produce the song in audio format and play it during the Cauvery Aarti ceremonies to enhance the spiritual experience of devotees.

Reposing confidence in the composers' creative excellence, Shivakumar noted that their musical expertise would help craft a piece worthy of the river’s sacred stature.

In a separate statement to the media, Shivakumar, who also chairs the Cauvery Aarti Committee, reiterated: "This devotional song should serve as a timeless tribute to Cauvery’s sacred heritage and reflect the spiritual essence and water wealth of the river."