Thyagaraja Aradhana literally translates to “Homage to Thyagaraja”. Saint Sri Thyagaraja Swami was one of the greatest composers of Carnatic Music and one of the “Music Trinities”, who translated “Sangeetha or music” to “Bhakthi”. His compositions were powerful in meaning, in drawing spirituality and in showing the path of righteousness to everyone. After he attained “Samadhi” in 1847, his memorial was instated on the banks of River Kaveri in the town of “Thiruvaiyaaru” in Thanjavur District of Tamil Nadu in India. Since 1906, many of his disciples and devotees started the tradition of rendering his compositions on the day when he attained “Samadhi” which falls on “Pushya Bahula Panchami” (in January).
In 1941, the Aradhana took the form as we know it today, bringing together Carnatic musicians from the world over and the group singing of “Pancharatna Krithis” of Thyagaraja began. The patrons that were instrumental in bringing this tradition together over the years were Bangalore Nagarathnamma, Umayalpuram Krishna Bhagavathar and Sundara Bhagavathar, Tillaisthanam Narasimha Bhagavatar and Tillaisthanam Panju Bhagavatar. As part of the Aradhana, concerts by world renowned artists and upcoming musicians from vocal singing to all instruments are conducted during this time.
Milwaukee Thyagaraja Aradhana (MTA) was started in 2006 as the first Carnatic Music festival in the Greater Milwaukee area through Singing, Instrumental and Dance/Drama. MTA conducts Thyagaraja Aradhana every year for the Greater Milwaukee region. One of the key tenets of this program is showcase the growing talent in the region as well as encourage our next generation to get engaged with our culture. We are privileged to be part of sustaining the significance of the tradition and proud about the engagement and support from the community.
More details about the 2024 event can be found on the event page – Milwaukee Thyagaraja Aradhana 2024
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