Kanna Katharul / Madhyamavathi / Adi / Papanasam Sivan / Sudha Ragunathan

Krithi: Kanna Katharul Ragam: Madhyamavathi Thalam: Adi Composer: Papanasam Sivan Vocal: Sudha Ragunathan Sudha Ragunathan is a renowned Indian Carnatic vocalist, acclaimed for her emotive voice, deep musical insight, and unwavering adherence to classical tradition. Born on April 30, 1957, in Chennai, she began her musical journey at the age of nine under her mother, Smt. Choodamani, and continued her training with Sri B.V. Lakshmanan. Recognized early for her talent, she was awarded a Central Government Scholarship for Young Artistes to pursue advanced training in Carnatic music. In 1977, she came under the tutelage of the legendary Padmabhushan Sangeetha Kalanidhi Dr. M.L. Vasanthakumari, who mentored and inspired her to make music her life’s pursuit. A postgraduate in economics from Ethiraj College, Sudha rose to prominence with a distinctive style marked by pitch perfection, rhythmic precision, and creative improvisation. Following her guru’s passing, she was widely regarded as MLV’s musical heir (vaarisu). Since 1990, her career has seen phenomenal growth, earning her top-ranking status with Prasar Bharati and frequent performances for All India Radio and Doordarshan. Among her notable honors is the rare privilege of rendering 'Vande Mataram' at the Central Hall of Parliament in 2000 to commemorate 50 years of the Indian Republic. Her accolades include the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the prestigious Sangeetha Kalanidhi. Beyond performance, she is also a humanitarian, founding the Samudhaaya Foundation for social causes and mentoring future musicians through her academy, Sudhaarnava. “Kanna Katharuḷ” is a beautiful prayer by Papanasam Sivan to Lord Krishna, seeking his compassionate grace and blessings. It recalls Krishna’s destruction of Narakasura and his protection of the righteous. The krithi celebrates Deepavali as the triumph of divine light over darkness and evil. Pallavi Kanna katharul megha varna kadaikkan partharul kamalak- Anupallavi Vinnadarum munivarum vanangi venda narakasura vadam sheiyya viraindu vanda Charanam Pamai vadivana bhumippiratti terotta asurar kulam azhittava chakra pani ulagelam mangala dipa valiyoli visha arul purinda ---------------------------------------------------- Meaning: O lotus-eyed Krishna, whose beautiful complexion is like a dark rain cloud, Please cast your compassionate sidelong glance upon me and bless me with your grace. When the devas and sages called upon you, You immediately came to their aid and destroyed Narakasura. Please show that same compassion toward me. With Bhudevi in her form as Satyabhama driving the chariot, You, O Chakrapaṇi, destroyed the clans of demons and brought an end to the tyranny of Narakasura. You are the one who bestowed your grace so that the auspicious rows of Deepavali lamps may shine brightly throughout the world. ---------------------------------------------------- DISCLAIMER : These songs have been uploaded for hearing pleasure only and as an archive for Carnatic music. By this I don't wish to violate any copyrights owned by the respective owners of these songs if any. I don't own any copyright of the songs myself. If anything is in violation of the copyright you own, then please let me know, I shall remove it from my Youtube channel.