Udupi: In a soulful expression of devotion and musical finesse, 13-year-old Adithya Rahul, a budding Carnatic violinist and vocalist from Bengaluru, captivated audiences with his two-day Carnatic violin concert tour held at sacred temples across Karnataka as part of Aashada Navarathri Celebrations.
Kollur concert strikes a spiritual chord
The first recital was hosted on 4th July 2025 at the Swarna Mukhi Rangamandira Auditorium, within the sacred Kollur Mookambika Temple premises. Organised by Akhila Bharathiya Sangeeta Nritya Kalavidhara Sangha, Bengaluru, the concert featured a solo violin performance by Adithya, accompanied on Mridangam by Vidwan Shri Gopikrishnan S. The event was attended by devotees and connoisseurs of Carnatic music who were deeply moved by the young artiste’s emotive command over the strings.
Udupi concert deepens musical reverence
On 5th July 2025, Adithya performed at the iconic Sri Krishna Temple, Udupi, under the auspices of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha. This concert, too, reflected the spiritual ambience of the temple and displayed the prodigious talent of the young violinist.
The recital opened with a Sri Raga Varnam, setting a classical tone for the evening. The highlight was the main piece, ‘Deva Deva Kalayami’, a majestic Maya Malava Gowla composition by Swati Thirunal. Adithya’s rendition of the Keeravani Raaga Alapana, sustained for a breathtaking seven minutes, was particularly praised by listeners. This was followed by ‘Devi Neeye Thunai’, a beloved Papanasam Sivan composition that showcased his expressive depth. The concert also included timeless compositions by Saint Tyagaraja, Mysore Vasudevacharya, and Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavatar, offering a wide panorama of Carnatic tradition.
Musical journey of a child prodigy
Born in Bengaluru, Adithya began learning the Carnatic violin at the age of six. His early training was under Shri Ganesh G and Shri Gokulakrishnan, and he later studied under Madurai Shri T. Kishore. Currently, he is mentored by Vidushi Smt. Vaikom Padmakrishnan, a respected Carnatic violinist from Kerala. Despite his young age, Adithya has performed with the maturity and understanding of a seasoned artiste.
He is a Grade IX student at BEML Shishya Public School, and over the years, has bagged several awards, including the Child Talent Award, Vadhya Sarathi Award, and Kala Pratibha Award, from both national and international forums.
A vision rooted in melody
Speaking to media after the concert, Adithya shared, “Travelling around the world to perform violin concerts is my dream.” With his growing repertoire, dedication, and the serene discipline of a true artiste, he seems well on his way to fulfilling it.
As Karnataka continues to nurture its rich musical heritage, artistes like Adithya stand as torchbearers of the tradition, promising a future where classical music continues to inspire, uplift, and unite across generations.