Aruna Sairam Biography 
Aruna Sairam is a Carnatic vocalist from Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu. Former Vice Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2015, she is regarded as the Music Ambassador of India, who promotes Carnatic music across the boundaries. She is a recipient of Padma Shri from the Government of India, for her achievements in Indian music. She was honoured by the titles - "Isai Selvam" and "Kalaimamani" by the Government of Tamil Nadu, both in the year 2006. A great teacher she follows Gurukula system of education. She is also known for her skills as an orator in the field of music. Her repertoire includes varying classical, semi-classical and folk music forms, belonging to different languages.
Aruna was born in Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu on 30 October 1952 into a musical family. But her family was settled in Mumbai where she spent her early days. Her father, Shri Sethurman was a music connoisseur who organized music events. Her mother Rajalakshmi Sethuraman, a trained vocalist was a disciple of the Alathur Brothers. After receiving initial training from her mother, she studied under T. Brinda, whom she regards as her mentor. She won her first gold medal at the age of eight at the Shanmukhananda Sabha Competition, Mumbai. She gave her first solo performance at the age of 14. She won the Best Young Musician Award at Madras Music Academy at a young age of 21.
As she resided in Mumbai she was exposure to film, western and Hindustani music since younger days. She also studied under S Ramachandran, Chittor Subramanya Pillai, A S Mani, K S Narayanaswamy and T R Subramanyam. She also received guidance in vocal training from German voice maestro Prof Eugene Rabine. She also made a significant role to make South Indian classical music global. She got the privilege to perform in the famous London’s Royal Albert Hall - the first South Indian classical vocalist to receive this honor.
Published: N/A
Updated: March 12, 2016
