T R Mahalingam

Artistes' Panorama

THE PAST - INSTRUMENTALISTS

T R Mahalingam

Mali, as he was affectionately known, was definitely among the greatest legends in the history of Carnatic music. A born wizard, his ascent to the top was so quick and dynamic, his seniors and contemporaries were left wondering. His exhilarating music on the flute dwarfed the mature, sedate play of Palladam Sanjeeva Rao, who incidentally, did not evince interest earlier in taking the boy as his ward. Mali is credited with evolving a style close to vocal rendition that took care of the sahitya and the bhava conveyed therein. There wasn't a single soul who wasn't mesmerised by his blowing technique. He gave a new meaning to flute playing with his at once brilliant and soulful music.