In rememberance of the guardian of Carnatic music on his 250th birth anniversary, over 100 musicians from the city paid homage to Saint Thyagaraja. The Thyagaraja Aaradhana group performed with musical instruments and sang his devotional songs at Sion's Shanmukhananda Hall. A 650 kg life-size statue of brass and copper was inaugurated during the event. Musicians performed Pancharatna Kritis — the five gem songs of Saint Thyagaraja. 75 year-old Amarnath Suri, Vice President of Shanmukhananda, said, "Thyagaraja was a prolific composer and was influential in the development of the traditional classical music. He composed thousands of devotional compositions mainly in praise of Lord Rama. Many of his songs are popular even today." The musicians who perform for two hours without a break, practise together at least thrice before the main event. 52-year-old Goregaon resident and vocalist Chitra Jayashilan said, "I like to play classical Carnatic music. I would participate in events in my area on this day but we stopped organising them. However, my love for his devotional songs motivated me to perform in Matunga along with other musicians for the past three years." Saint Thyagaraja composed his first song on Rama called Namo Namo Raghavaya when he was only 13 years old. "Thyagaraja's compositions are rich in devotional content. They are noted for his choice of raga and words used while composing it," Suri said. Speaking about the new generation's interest in Carnatic music, Rohit Prasad, 28, who plays Mrudangam, said, "The youngster generation is interested in learning Carnatic music. Every year Carnatic music lover wait for this day.

Stay updated with all the Mumbai Latest News headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.