On April 19, music enthusiasts and students of the renowned composer, singer, and mischievous personality of light music, Raju Ananthaswamy, celebrate his 51st birth anniversary. This musical tribute, the first of its kind, holds a global reach.
“Raju the Legend,” scheduled for April 19 at the Srihari Khode Auditorium near Konanakunte, promises a musical feast in remembrance of the legendary Raju Ananthaswamy. Renowned drummer Manjunath Satyasheel and famous singer Ananya Bhat are the masterminds behind this event.
Srinivas G. Kappanna, a veteran in organizing such events over the past four decades, along with music directors Praveen D Rao, Praveen & Pradeep, and singer Divya Raghavan, were present at the media briefing.
“I grew up listening to Raju Ananthaswamy’s songs and wanted to organize a program in his honor,” shared one of the organizers. “When I shared this idea with my friend, the renowned drummer Manjunath Satyasheel, he shared the same sentiments. With the support of Raju Ananthaswamy’s close associates and disciples, we decided to proceed with this celebration. As April 19 marks Raju Ananthaswamy’s birthday, we chose this date for a melodious evening of his songs under the banner ‘Raju the Legend’ at Srihari Khode Auditorium, Konanakunte. We aim to incorporate AI technology and musical instruments into the event and invite over 1000 music enthusiasts to join us,” explained the drummer, Manjunath.
Eighteen songs of Raju Ananthaswamy will be performed by renowned singers, accompanied by visuals depicting his life through modern technology and AI. Originally planned on a smaller scale, the event has now expanded to the state’s largest auditorium, with the organizers urging Raju Ananthaswamy’s fans and music lovers to attend in large numbers. Prolific singer Ananya Bhat emphasized the importance of audience cooperation. Tickets, priced at just 299 rupees, are available on BookMyShow.
“Raju the Legend” will feature performances by the country’s famous singers, chorus singers, and instrumentalists, alongside a unique attempt to incorporate various international instruments into light music songs for the first time. The organizers aspire to gain global recognition for the event and hope for the support of Kannada artists in achieving this dream. The entire ceremony will be dedicated to Raju Ananthaswamy, as announced by Manjunath Satyasheel.
Reflecting on his association with Raju Ananthaswamy, veteran Srinivas G. Kappanna emphasized the importance of belief in realizing dreams. He praised the contributions of Raju Ananthaswamy, alongside other luminaries in the field of light music, such as Dr. C Ashwath and P Kalinga Rao, wishing success for the “Raju the Legend” event.
Praveen D Rao, Divya Raghavan, Praveen, and Pradeep expressed their anticipation for the unique and captivating tribute, hoping for its grand success.
