Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Chennai celebrated Armed Forces Week (1-7 December) by inviting Lt Gen R.K. Swamy as the chief guest at a concert on 5 December 2018. R.K.Swamy spoke briefly on the significance of the armed forces and why it is important for citizens to recognise their selfless service.

In a refreshing deviation from the usual line of carnatic music concerts, the evening saw an excellent presentation of patriotic songs by Devi Neithiyar and group (disciples of T.V. Gopalakrishnan) rendering select numbers in various Indian languages and genres. What was even more interesting was a power point presentation that explained the meaning of the songs. Her voice had an incredible range and felicity and won the hearts of the audience. Devi, with her team of accompanists and choir members succeeded considerably in bringing out the spirit of the compositions.

At the end, a member of the audience indeed shared his personal appreciation by excitedly remarking, “We are here enjoying our freedom because of the army that safeguards us and protects us from hostile environs.”

The dignitaries sat through the entire recital much to the enthusiasm of the artists and a discerning audience.

Jai Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan for the laudable initiative!

S Sivaramakrishnan