Srimadwadiraja Aradhana Trust

Owing to the efforts of R.K. Padmanabha, a leading vocalist and teacher of classical music, the Srimadwadiraja Aradhana Trust, which promotes the kala bhavana, has become a centre for promoting all forms of Indian classical music. It has popularised the works of great composers among scholars and students of music. Mr. Padmanabha himself has been instrumental in popularising the concept of "Goshti Gayana" across Bangalore with more than 600 music students under him. Groups of them sing in chorus, making such musical occasions memorable. He was presented the Rajyotsava Award in 2004 and also the Purandara Vittala Prashasthi for his service to the cause of classical music. The trust has several plans to promote classical music in a big way. These include construction of a fully equipped auditorium where musical concerts and plays can be staged, and training students in music. Workshops on the great composers, publication of books, bringing out music CDs, setting up a library of books on music and promoting research into musical traditions are on the anvil. Above all, Mr. Padmanabha wants to promote the "Goshti Gayana" concept on a large scale by bringing the chorus music tradition to Indian classical music. Vadiraja Kala Bhavana, located near Hulimavu on the outskirts of the city may eventually have other additions to meet the requirements of such plans. Saint Vadiraja composed several bhajans and keertanas dedicated to Lord Hayavadana. For some reason, his compositions were overshadowed by those of other composers of the time such as Purandaradasa and Kanakadasa. Efforts are being made to revive interest in the works of Vadiraja through concerts.