‘Thanks to the city and its unique Margazhi season, my art found an anchor’

If I claimed that I am Made of Chennai, I wouldn’t be exaggerating! Chennai is not just where I live; it is what I breathe, what I believe, and what ‘built’ me, said Sudha Ragunathan, Carnatic vocalist.

I might define Chennai as a city of soul and substance, where tradition meets modernity with effortless grace, innate charm, and dignified simplicity.

From the rich aroma of filter coffee to the flowing Kanjeevaram silks; from the winding Marina beach where one can gaze at the waters glistening silver and gold under the blazing sun, to the cluttered roads, a little disorganised with innumerable number of majestic hotels, cafes, and chai hubs; and the ragas and thalas ‘floating’out of the cultural sabhas, Chennai stands tall, justifying its inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its rich musical tradition. The city has something for everyone.

The city and its unique Margazhi season have given me an identity, cradled and nurtured me, and that is how my art found an anchor.

I could be travelling to the most exotic country in the world, but my heart always yearns to return home — to the city and its warmth!

(As told to Deepa H. Ramakrishnan)