In the realm of music, there are individuals whose mastery transcends borders, captivating audiences worldwide with their unparalleled talent.Kumaran Ramayah is a virtuoso in the art of playing Tamil melodies on the Nadhaswaram, a traditional wind instrument. His exceptional talent has garnered attention not only locally but also on international stages. He drew recognition by playing Nadhaswaram in Tamil melodies, and he performed some songs and posted it on his social media as requested by his followers.
Kumaran Ramayah hailing from Ipoh and works as a safety and health officer. He started attending Nadhaswaram class at the age of six (1996).Kumaran completed Mechanical Engineering at Politeknik Ungku Omar in 2012.He plays Nadhaswaram for a variety of melodies from Tamil movies, including Snehidanae, Vellai Puraa, Kannama Kannama Kanmani, Anbondu Kadhalan, and more. He drew recognition by playing Nadhaswaram in Tamil melodies, and he performed some songs and posted it on social media as asked by his followers. When we questioned Kumaran where he got the inspiration to try out Tamil tunes in Nadhaswaram, he said, “I attended to my cousin’s wedding, and as an audience, I was bored because the performance was all classical. Since then, I have begun to perform Nadhaswaram with Tamil songs in order to keep my audience entertained.
Kumaran with his father Ramayah
“My father would send me to a proper Nadhaswaram class every day. My father on the other hand started playing Nadhaswaram at the age of 20. However, he wasn’t properly trained to learn it.So my father decided to send me to formal training to ensure that I learned everything correctly,” he uttered.Kumaran also mentioned that “I was trained by my mentor (guru) Sengal G.Renganathan Gurukkal) from India at Maha Mariyamman temple in Ipoh.” He began as a Nadhaswaram musician in 1998 and has since performed for a wide range of traditional events, including weddings, temple festivals, temple kumbhabhishegams and stage shows.
His dedication and innate talent soon earned him recognition as a prodigy in the world of classical music.Driven by a deep desire to share the beauty of Nadhaswaram with audiences far and wide, Kumaran embarked on a remarkable odyssey, traversing numerous countries to spread his musical legacy.From vibrant Malaysian streets to elegant music halls in Australia, London, France, Denmark, Switzerland, and Singapore.
In January 2014, he performed Nadhaswaram for the Thaipusam celebration at Melbourne Murugan Temple Sunshine in Australia. Kumaran Ramaiyah was warmly welcomed in Australia, a country recognized for its appreciation of music from around the world. His performances attracted audiences, making a lasting impression and encouraging a renewed interest in Tamil culture among those in attendance.In the same year, he performed at the Kodiyetram (Flag Pole) event at Sri Senpaga Vinayakar Temple in Singapore.
Kumaran Ramaiyah charmed French audiences with his passionate renditions, bringing them to the bustling streets with each beautiful note.He demonstrated his expertise in France for a wedding. He also added that “In 2016, I performed at the Balaji Temple in Birmingham, UK, and the following year, I performed for a wedding in Switzerland.
Kumaran performed at “Yesudass Golden Nite” in 2016
“One of my most memorable experiences was performing at “Yesudass Golden Nite” in 2016 alongside Dr.K.J. Yesudass and playback singer Alka Ajith at the Royal Festival Hall in the United Kingdom,” he mentioned in the interview.His Nadhaswaram performances in Denmark left audiences in awe, as he effortlessly blended tradition with innovation, breathing new life into ancient melodies.Collaborating with local musicians, he infused traditional Tamil melodies with the diverse musical traditions of each country, creating a harmonious fusion that resonated with audiences and celebrated cultural diversity.
Awards and Recognition
He was awarded the title NADASWARA LAYAMANI by the Greentown Indian Cultural Society in Ipoh in 2006, and in June 2014, he got the “Nadhaswara ENKUZHAL SORUBAN” award from AnanthamCreations UK.In June 2016, he was honored as “Nadhaswara SWARANAATHA BAANU” at the Sri Karpagar Vinayakar temple in Wales, United Kingdom.
“When I was younger, I used to play Nadhaswaram for the temple chariot, but I did not earn enough recognition from the public. Malaysia lacks educators who can teach proper classical music because all of the mentors are from India. Also, we do not have enough educators, and there aren’t enough classical music institutions,as it is extremely difficult to master classical music in Malaysia.Despite all obstacles, I made every effort to flourish as a Nadhaswaram musician and am extremely proud of my accomplishments,” he stated.
Kumaran’s Overview: Why Young People Should Take Up Classical Instruments and Music
Classical music or studying an instrument improves cognitive qualities like memory, attention, and problem-solving.Learning a classical instrument needs devotion, discipline, and perseverance. Children that study classical music develop a strong work ethic as they tirelessly practice scales, techniques, and compositions throughout time.
Kumaran also recounted his own experience from abroad, stating that overseas institutions understand the importance of music education by requiring students to master at least one classical music genre, a practice that encourages cultural appreciation and discipline among learners.Kumaran additionally shared his personal experience from abroad, stating that “overseas schools understand the value of music education by requiring students to learn at least one classical music genre, a practice that encourages cultural appreciation and discipline among students.Witnessing children abroad singing Thevaram at temples is truly impressive, underscoring the universal appeal and significance of classical Indian music across borders.”
I strongly advise all parents to enroll their children in music classes or, at the absolute least, teach them Thevaram, as early exposure to music can have significant benefits for their cognitive, emotional, and cultural development.Kumaran also stated that he plans to setup a classical musical class for anyone enthusiastic in learning classical music or playing a musical instrument.
We wish Kumaran’s Nadhaswaram music to be heard all over the world and his musical journey to rise even further!
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