Mysore Brothers perform violin concert in support of the JSS Spiritual Mission in Maryland

October 15, 2024: Maryland: Mysore Nagaraj and Mysore Manjunath, the acclaimed Indian classical violinist duo, popularly known as Mysore Brothers, performed at a special violin concert hosted by the JSS Spiritual Mission on October 13, 2024, in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

In an exclusive interview with South Asian Herald at the JSS Mission, ahead of the concert, Manjunath, who holds a doctorate in Violin music studies, shared insights into his ongoing U.S. tour, his experience as an Indian Cultural Ambassador, and the global rise in popularity of Indian classical music. He also reflected on the deep connection between classical music and spirituality, and the discipline instilled in him and his brother by their father.

“It’s so wonderful coming back to Maryland. It’s one of our favorite places in the United States. We especially love the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the JSS mission,” noted Manjunath who visited Maryland to perform at the fundraising concert to help with the Spiritual Mission’s temple construction.

Manjunath brothers and their troupe, including Srimushnam Rajarao, and Giridhar Udupa are currently on a two-month tour across the U.S., performing at 20 different venues. Their performances in prominent venues include the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple (KSHT) in Frisco, Texas, the World Music Festival in Chicago, Illinois, the Pioneer Works Festival in New York, the Common Thread Music Festival in Oregon, as well as several historic Catholic churches. They are also scheduled to perform at KSHT in Fremont, California.

Manjunath emphasized the significance of performing in live concerts, noting that while many people follow his performances on YouTube and other social media platforms, there’s nothing quite like experiencing a concert in person. This is especially true for Indian classical music, which is highly distinctive and resonates deeply with a live audience. In such settings, a unique connection is created between musicians and the audience.

Indian classical music is “widely appreciated,” in western countries, he said, pointing out that it is deeply “emotional and melodic.” According to Manjunath, he has performed in over 45 countries sharing the richness of Carnatic music to even the most remote parts of the world. From his experience, he finds that western audiences, even those accustomed to their own classical traditions, enjoy listening to the beauty of Indian classical music.

He also conveyed that people in western countries enjoy seeing the violin being played in Indian style. Unlike the Western tradition, where musicians typically stand, Indian violinists have a completely different setup, performing while seated on the floor in a folded position.

Manjunath also highlighted the deep connection between Indian music and spirituality. Many eminent musicians have regard music as one of the highest forms of spiritual practice, believing it to be one of the easiest ways to connect with the divine. In Hinduism, even the gods are depicted playing musical instruments, which reflects the importance of music in the spiritual and cultural fabric of the religion.

As a Cultural Ambassador for the Government of India, Manjunath has visited several countries, including Iran, Russia, the UK, Sri Lanka, and Bahrain. In Slovenia, he also performed during the Indian Republic Day celebrations, organized by the local Congress and the Indian Embassy.

“Representing India globally gives me a great sense of responsibility,” he prided. He also fondly recalled performing an Indian classical music concert at an international music festival held at the Royal Palace in Milan, Italy, ten months ago. He emphasized that these international performances are “very important,” and that he takes “utmost care,” to showcase the significance of classical music to a global audience.

Manjunath began learning music from his father, a renowned violinist Prof. S. Mahadevappa, when he was just seven years old. Reflecting on the strict discipline his father instilled in him, he said, “My brother and I used to practice eight to ten hours a day. If we didn’t practice in the morning, there was no breakfast, and if we didn’t practice in the evening, there was no dinner.”

Expressing gratitude for his father’s dedication and vision, he remarked, “I am among the select few musicians who have been given significant opportunities from a young age,” emphasizing that he worships his father every day. “He was my guru, my teacher, my friend, and my mentor,” Manjunath added.

Following in his footsteps, Manjunath’s son, Sumanth Manjunath, was recently awarded a gold medal for achieving the top rank in his Master’s in Music program at the University of Mysore. Currently, he is on his third concert tour in Europe this year, collaborating with various talented European musicians to connect with a broader audience.

Manjunath’s son recently held a special workshop on Indian Classical Music at the University of Surrey. He is also set to visit the University of Cambridge’s Department of Music to conduct a masterclass for violin students, research scholars, and music faculty.

Manjunath shared an inspiring message for children interested in music, emphasizing the importance of taking it seriously and the numerous benefits it offers. “Music is undoubtedly one of the best things that has happened to mankind. Music instills discipline and strengthens us both emotionally and intellectually. Through music our ideas and thoughts become more profound,” he added.

He also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham, and His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji of the Sri Suttur Math, in Mysore, recognizing them as “great pillars of classical music in India.”

Manjunath is one of the youngest recipients of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, presented by the Government of India. He also holds the distinction of being the youngest musician to receive the distinguished Rajyotsava Award from the Government of Karnataka.

(Used with permission)