Ashvin Hari's Mridangam Arangetram - A Melodious Journey
The Arangetram of Ashvin Hari, a disciple of the distinguished Poovalur Sriji, was a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and devotion. With a team of extraordinarily talented artists and a dedication to the rich tradition of classical music, this event was one of the largest Arangetrams witnessed in the community. Ashvin’s performance was not just a personal milestone, but a beautifully crafted display of artistry and tradition, supported by a close-knit team of like-minded volunteers who ensured the event's success.
The Artists
Ashvin Hari - Mridangam
The young and passionate disciple of Poovalur Sriji made a remarkable debut in his Arangetram. His dedication, rhythmic clarity, and deep connection to his instrument were evident throughout the performance, marking him as a budding mridangist to watch.
C.S. Sajeev - Vocalist
Traveling all the way from India, Sajeev graced the event with his soulful voice, making every note resonate with beauty and depth. A highlight of his performance was the powerful rendition of "Harivarasanam," which transformed the auditorium into a singular, harmonious family, with everyone humming, singing, or simply immersing themselves in the music.
Vittal Ramamoorthy - Violin
Adding a melodic touch to the concert, Ramamoorthy's violin accompaniment was both subtle and enriching. His strings not only supported the vocals and percussion but added a unique flavor to the overall musical experience.
Vikom Gopalakrishnan - Ghatam
As an adept Ghatam artist, Gopalakrishnan’s accompaniment was outstanding. His rhythms beautifully complemented Ashvin’s mridangam and provided encouragement and support throughout the concert, creating a seamless blend of melody and percussion.
A Venue of Togetherness and Support
The venue, Adithi, was perfectly suited for this grand occasion, easily accessible for all guests and providing ample parking. Sai and Hemanth, who ensured the seamless running of the event, showed incredible dedication throughout the day, taking every suggestion and working tirelessly within the constraints of time and budget. The addition of sound panels brought a significant improvement to the acoustic experience, elevating the event's overall quality.
The Guiding Force: Poovalur Sriji
Poovalur Sriji, Ashvin’s guru, is much more than a teacher. His ability to bring together such a talented ensemble and nurture Ashvin’s talent is truly commendable. With years of experience as a professor and a background rooted in music, Sriji continues to introduce new talents to the world and guide them to achieve greatness.
The Family Behind the Talent
Uma and Hari, Ashvin's parents, left no stone unturned in planning every detail of this event. From coordinating costumes, decor, and food to arranging lighting, audio, video, and photography, every aspect was meticulously thought out. Pulling off an Arangetram with over 500 attendees is no easy feat, yet they executed it flawlessly. Hari’s dedication to Sanatana Dharma and community betterment was reflected in every detail. With Uma’s unwavering support, this event wasn't just a celebration of Ashvin’s talent but a demonstration of the family's passion for culture and tradition.
A special mention goes to little Adithi, whose simple yet elegant presence in her matching costume with her father added a touch of charm to the event. Her presence was a testament to the family’s love and unity.
The Decor and Ambiance
The decor by big shot events at the event was thoughtfully chosen, evoking memories of traditional Indian temple settings and childhood nostalgia. The temple-like ambiance and traditional carpet created a spiritual and emotional connection, enhancing the overall experience of the concert. Check them here
The Technical Team
The seamless video, audio, and live streaming were made possible by a dedicated technical team:
Dheeraj was instrumental in setting up multiple cameras for live streaming on YouTube and local TV, working tirelessly from early morning to late afternoon.
Mike, the audio engineer, ensured that every sound was crisp and clear, showcasing his unparalleled passion for his craft.
Despite some core team members being unavailable, superheroes like Harini and Harshini Saravana stepped in to manage camera angles, while Madhu captured the decor, behind-the-scenes, and candid moments.
Sarah was back to assist with the event, previously having covered Adithi’s Sweet 16 celebration, showing her continued dedication and support. Check her work at SkysProduction
Prasad Chundi of iFilm provided invaluable assistance with wireless streaming, always ready to lend a helping hand irrespective of the event. Check his work at prasadchundi.com
Food and Venue
The delicious food catered by Atithi Venue added the perfect flavor to the evening. The variety and taste, especially the dal and rasam, left everyone wanting more. Hemanth and Sai, who stayed on their toes throughout the day, ensured that everything ran smoothly, from the audio to the lighting, making this venue a prime choice for events of such grandeur.
A Beautiful Conclusion
The entire concert, from start to finish, was a treat for all who attended. The music selection was exquisite, and the speeches, particularly Poovalur Sriji’s words on the importance of a guru and the continuous pursuit of learning, left a lasting impression.
Thank you, Uma and Hari, for allowing my team to not just cover this memorable event but also to be part of such a captivating experience. It was an honor to witness Ashvin’s talent and celebrate this joyous occasion with your family and friends.
May Ashvin’s musical journey continue to inspire and bring joy to many more, and may he carry forward the traditions and teachings of his guru with pride and excellence!