The Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival was celebrated on Saturday, 27th April in Solihull.
The annual festival, organised by ShruthiUK, in its fifth year is a celebration of Indian classical music and dance to commemorate the 172nd birthday of the singing saint & composer Thyagaraja. A vibrant and colourful festival which reminds us of our rich cultural heritage and our respect towards the legendary composer for his contribution to Carnatic Music.
The festival had over 50 participants from all across the UK, artistes from India, U.S and Canada, which included children and young adults, alongside professionals. The evening featured performances such as the Carnatic Guitar, Chitraveina, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi and many more melodious classical music and dance.
The BTF 2019 is supported by the Consul General of India in Birmingham and in partnership with Touchwood Solihull, Solihull Chamber, Solihull Bid, Asian chambers of Commerce and other premier educational institutions and corporates.
The festival was attended by Her Majesty’s lord Lieutenant Mr John Crabtree OBE, Dr Aman Puri IFS, Consul General of India in Birmingham, Dr Paul Sabapathy CVO CBE, Patron of ShruthiUK.
Every year, BTF recognizes outstanding women who have made a positive impact and contribution to the society through their skills and passion.
This year, four inspiring women were recognized and honoured at the Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival.
BTF also supports a charity every year and helps to raise funds through donations and gift aids. This year Acorns Children’s Hospice Trust was the chosen charity.
It was wonderful to see such amazing young talents and professionals from all across the UK and their enthusiasm to participate and sustain the Indian culture and heritage.
“Festivals such as the BTF, helps people to connect in a much better way through their culture and traditions.
As an artist, I feel it is my responsibility to take these classical art forms to wider
communities, help them experience, enjoy and to unite all of us through music and
dance.- “Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan FRSA
Pictured above left to right: Mr Noel Cramer, Support and Engagement Officer, Acorns Hospice Trust, Mr Paul Cadman, CEO Acorns Hospice Trust, Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan FRSA, HM ‘s Lord Lt of WM, Mr John Crabtree OBE, Mr Tony Elvin, General Manager, Touchwooc Solihull, Dr Paul Sabapathy CVO CBE,Parton, ShruthiUK
Pic credit: Mr S.M. Irfan Tahir
