Vishaka Hari Biography 
Vishaka Hari is a Carnatic singer and Harikatha exponent from Tamil Nadu. She learnt the art of Harikatha from her husband, Sri Hariji, a Harikatha exponent who delivers discourses in Tamil, English and Hindi. She learnt Carnatic music from the legendary Lalgudi Jayaraman. Vishaka completed her Chartered accountant course, and later dedicated her valuable time to promote Harikatha and classical music. She is associated with several music sabhas as a performer since 2006, and occasionally performs with her husband. Her brother Saketharaman is a well-known Carnatic artist.
Vishaka Hari took formal education in Carnatic music from Lalgudi Jayaraman. Her association with Harikatha began only after marriage with Hari, who taught her this art form. As a Harikatha performer, she performs on Srimad Ramayanam, Srimad Bhagavatham and Skanda puranam most preferably. She also performs from Srisrianna's works. Vishaka Hari is the new wonder performer of Kathakalakshepam – story telling of Indian epics. She is an All India Radio artist, who often delivers discourses and concerts abroad. She learnt Bharatha Natyam from Sudharani Raghupati. She also learnt music from Krishna Premi.
Vishaka uses lyrics from several composers in her performances; Tulsidas, Meera, Jayadeva, Alwars etc to mention a few. Among all her favourite ones are from Saint Thyagaraja because of the intense bhakthi element one finds there. Vishaka has elevated the art of harikatha to a new level, and she is one of the immensely popular exponents of present day generation. She belonged to a family of music lovers, and was married to a Harikatha exponent. Her husband Sri Hari uses his English literary background to supplement her kathakalakshepam performances, thus making their performances easy in foreign concerts.
Published: September 01, 2018
Updated: September 01, 2018
