Violin Maestro Padmashri Kannakudi R Vaidyanathan Passed Away

KUNNAKUDI RAMASWAMI SASTRI VAIDYANATHAN, a Violin Maestro, died of Cardiac Arrest around 8:45 PM on September 8, 2008. Vaidyanathan was admitted in the hospital following Cardiac problems and also prolonged illness. He was 75 Years Old when he died (1932-2008).

Vaidyanathan, known for introducing novelties in his violin concerts, had performed all over the world. His concerts with THAVIL, a traditional South Indian Drum instrument, was welcomed by music lovers in the country. He had headed the IYAL ISAI NATAKAMANTRAM (Sangeetha Nataka Academy) of Tamil Nadu for several years. He was also the Secretary of THYAGA BRAHMA SABHA, Tiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district, which organized the annual Aradhna Festival of the great Carnatic music composer Saint Thyagaraja. He is also the recipient of the prestigious KALAI MAMANI award in 1975 and PADMASHRI in 2005.

A man of many talents, he ventured into the film industry with VAA RAJA VAA. In the film DAIVAM, his composition Marudamalai Mamaniyae Murugaiyya became a stupendous hit. He had composed music for several films including AGATHIYAR and RAJA RAJA CHOZHAN. He Produced a film called TODI RAAGAM, which was critically acclaimed for its music.

INDIAN FILMDOM is with Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan’s Family & Friends in these moments of sorrow and would pray for their well being. We know that his Legendary Music would live on as long as Music itself does.