R. K. Srikantan Biography 
R. K. Srikantan, one of the last links to the golden age of Indian classic music was a renowned Carnatic vocalist from the state of Karnataka. He was awarded the Madras Music Academy's Sangeetha Kalanidhi in 1995, Sangeet Natak Akademi Tagore Ratna in 2012 and many more honours for his contributions to Indian music. He received Kendra l Sangeet Natak Akademi Award by the Government of India in 1979 and Karnataka Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1981. He lived during the period, 14 January 1920 – 17 February 2014. He owned numerous disciples of whom M. S. Sheela and H. K. Narayana became very famous in the genre of Sugam sangeet.
The doyen of Carnatic music and vocalist R.K. Srikantan was born on 14 January 1920 to a Sankethi Brahmin family in Rudrapatna. This place now belongs to Hassan district of Karnataka. He was born on Makara Sankranti day into a family of artists and musicians, with strong links to music. His father was a multifaceted personality, known to be a singer, writer, musician and orator. His grandfather was a Veena player. His school and college education were completed from Mysore. He graduated from Maharaja College, Mysore.
He was initiated to the world of music by his father at a young age. His father moved to Mysore after his wife's death, and Srikantan’s music classes were continued by his maternal uncle, R. K. Venkatarama Shastri. He also received training from Veene Subbanna and Chowdiah later, before he turned a full-fledged vocalist. He was influenced by Nadaswaram vidwans of his time, and frequently attended music concerts in Mysore.
Known for his correct pronunciation, diction and refinement of pitch, Srikantan created a niche of his own in Carnatic music circle. He was one of the senior most performers from the state of Karnataka when he passed away in 2014, aged 94. He performed in 75 concerts in 2013, just before his death.
Published: October 16, 2018
Updated: October 16, 2018
