Four Decades of Discipline: Sanjay Subrahmanyan's Musical Journey
After forty remarkable years on stage, Carnatic vocalist Sanjay Subrahmanyan continues to embody rigour, restlessness, and constant reinvention. In a candid conversation, the maverick singer opens up about the Margazhi season, his unwavering preparation methods, and his passion for bringing younger crowds to classical concerts. He also reveals a surprising love for board games during his downtime.
The Margazhi Season: From Festival Frenzy to Focused Performances
We find ourselves at the tail end of the Margazhi music season. How does Sanjay view this period now? "I don't really do a post-season analysis," he admits with characteristic directness. "I just go and sing." Approaching what many would consider retirement age, he quickly dismisses the notion for artists. "That doesn't apply to the arts. So, I don't think about it in that way."
Active since 1986, this marks his 40th year performing. What significance does the season hold today? "It is just concerts," he states simply. "For me, the season is a chance to sing more in Chennai." He notes that his concerts in the city during other months have decreased recently. December now brings about ten performances in his hometown. "I was born and brought up here and have sung here all my life. Now, it is almost only during December that I sing extensively here."
But memories of earlier days paint a different picture. "Earlier, it was like a festival," he recalls. "There was a phase when I used to sing 20-25 concerts in 40 days." He describes a rigorous routine: "Every day, you prepared, went, sang and came back — like the office." He listened intently to fellow musicians and stayed acutely aware of peers' activities. "It was kind of hectic," he reflects.
Evolution of Preparation: From Casual to Meticulous
Has his approach to concerts changed over the decades? "Preparation is something I always do," Sanjay emphasizes. Early in his career, he never worked with a set list. "I was too casual." However, turning music into his profession transformed his methods. "Once I started depending on music for my daily bread, my preparation became serious. From that day till today, that's how it's been."
What does this preparation involve? "That's a secret," he says with a smile. But he shares some insights. "You have to practice everything. Even today, I sing every day." Before any concert, he knows 90-95 percent of his repertoire. He practices those songs repeatedly. "I don't believe in going on stage unprepared," he asserts, highlighting his commitment to excellence.
Spotlight on Young Talent: The Times Thyagaraja Awards
Sanjay Subrahmanyan will grace the stage at the grand finale of The Times Thyagaraja Awards. This annual initiative by The Times of India celebrates and promotes Chennai's rich musical heritage. It stands as one of the city's most respected platforms for recognizing emerging Carnatic musicians.
The event's 15th edition culminates on January 17 at 5 PM at The Music Academy. Five finalists will compete for this year's prestigious title. Following the competition, Sangita Kalanidhi Sanjay Subrahmanyan will perform a special concert.
Those interested can obtain complimentary invites through several channels. They can WhatsApp TTA to 99620 23333, visit the website www.chanceyilla.in, or collect passes from The Times of India office at No 19, Venkatanarayana Road, T Nagar between 10 AM and 6 PM.
The 15th Times Thyagaraja Awards receives support from multiple partners. Casagrand presents the event. Indian Overseas Bank and Hatsun power it. Associates include Gopuram Turmeric & Kumkum, Shree Anandhaas Sweets and Snacks, Nippo Batteries, Dheepam Oil as Divinity Partner, and SRM Prime Hospital as Health Partner.
Through platforms like these, Sanjay Subrahmanyan continues to inspire both seasoned listeners and new audiences, ensuring Carnatic music's vibrant future.
