Who among the following is known for playing the Mridangam?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) RV Raghavan

• RV Raghavan, also known as Ramnad V. Raghavan, was a renowned Indian percussionist specializing in the mridangam, a traditional South Indian drum.

• Born in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, he was trained in Carnatic music and became a prominent figure in the field.

• Raghavan was instrumental in introducing Carnatic percussion to international audiences, particularly through his teaching roles at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, USA.

• He was a key initiator of the Cleveland Thyagaraja Aradhana, a significant event in the Carnatic music calendar.

• His contributions to music education and performance have left a lasting impact on the Carnatic music community.

Information Booster:

• Mridangam:

  • A double-headed barrel-shaped drum used in Carnatic music.

  • Played with both hands, it provides the rhythmic foundation in South Indian classical performances.

  • Recognized for its deep, resonant tones and intricate rhythmic patterns.

• Other Notable Mridangam Artists:

  • Yella Venkateswara Rao: A prominent mridangam player known for his virtuosity and contributions to Carnatic music.

  • Umayalpuram K. Sivaraman: Renowned for his innovative techniques and significant influence in the field.

Additional Information:

• (A)Asad Ali Khan is a distinguished sarod player, not a percussionist.

• (B)Ram Narayan is a celebrated sarangi maestro, specializing in the string instrument.

• (D)TH Vinayakram, also known as Vikku Vinayakram, is a legendary percussionist, but he is primarily known for playing the ghatam, an earthen pot, rather than the mridangam.