Tyagaraja

Saint Tyagaraja (17??-1848), a devout devotee of Sree RamaChandra, is one of the principal composers of Carnatic music tradition. He is also regarded as the most important of the composers' trinity. Born in a Telugu Brahmin family, Tyagaraja lived in Thiruvaiyaru, near Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Having composed innumerable number of keerthanas (songs) that explore all the possibilities within the rules of the Carnatic music tradition, Tyagaraja is truly regarded as the corner stone of Carnatic music.

To this day, a commemorative music festival called Tyagaraja Aaradhana is held at Thiruvaiyaru in the months of January to February every year.

Usually, doyens of Carnatic music preside and perform in the festival.

See also