Sri Sharadamba Temple, Richmond, TX: In a luminous celebration of music and milestones, young Carnatic vocalist Isha Jyothi stepped onto the stage for her debut concert, Sangeetha Samarpanam. Held at the peaceful Sankara Hall of Sri Sharadamba Temple, the evening marked not only her high school graduation, but the beginning of a promising musical journey.
A Guru's Touch
Isha's training is shaped by her teacher Smt. Rajarajeshwary Bhat, founder of Krishna Gana Sudha Music Academy. Through years of steady guidance and musical mentorship, she's helped Isha develop her voice and confidence, nurturing a love of classical music that shines in every note.
“Amma didn't just teach me music—she helped me find my voice, my strength, and my purpose.” - Isha
A Talented Ensemble
The concert featured a group of gifted young artists whose teamwork and artistry elevated the performance:
Tejas Murali (Violin) - A Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival prizewinner, Tejas played with lyrical charm and graceful sensitivity.
Narayan Sreenivasan (Mridangam) - His rhythmic clarity and intuitive support added energy and balance throughout the evening.
Aninditha Sriramasubramanian (Tambura) - A fellow student of Smt. Bhat, Aninditha anchored the concert with a steady shruti, enhancing its meditative tone.
A Thoughtfully Chosen Setlist
Isha's selections traced a musical arc across ragas and languages—starting with Arabhi Varnam and flowing into Shrivighna Rajam, Sharade Karunanidhe, and Sabha Patiku. Her renditions of Sudhamayi, Kaliyuga, and Manasa Etulo brought depth and devotion, while Samajavaragamana in Hindolam delighted the audience with flair and precision.
Her lighter pieces—Theeradha Vilayattu Pillai, Kunidhado, and Alaippayude—added variety and charm, while Mutthaitharu and the brisk Thillana in Dhanashree displayed her versatility. She ended with the serene Harivarasanam, leaving the audience in quiet reflection.
Each item was introduced with visuals and short explanations, making the concert accessible even to those unfamiliar with Carnatic music. The Emcee's script wove the repertoire into themes of wellness and emotion, drawing cinematic and cultural connections that resonated with all.
A Guest of Honor with a Big Heart
The event began with the blessings of Sri. Amudha Bharathi, Himalayan Yogi and founder of Amudha Vaasi Foundation, the family's beloved Vaasi Guruji, whose spiritual presence set a peaceful and uplifting tone for the evening.
The concert was further graced by Smt. Janaki Viswanathan, a beloved Carnatic music teacher in Houston, known for her dedication to sharing music across generations and backgrounds. She brought warmth and sincerity that deeply moved the audience, sharing notes on every song and offering genuine praise for Isha's clarity, expression, and emotional depth.
“Her words were like blessings,” said Isha's parents. “Her encouragement will guide Isha for years to come.”
Music With a Mission
In a gesture of generosity and grace, Isha and her parents, Devi Prabhaharan and Prabhaharan Gunasekaran, dedicated all gift proceeds from the event to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, inviting guests to support children facing life-threatening illnesses.
This spirit of giving was mirrored by the loving tribute of Guru Prabhaharan, Isha's younger brother. His speech reflected quiet pride, speaking of her growth, her commitment, and the joy her music brings to their family. His words reminded everyone that music shared within a family becomes an offering that reaches far beyond the stage—with compassion, purpose, and meaning.
Together, the family's dedication made the concert not just a celebration—but a symbol of kindness through music.
The Echo of Sangeetha Samarpanam
As the final notes of Harivarasanam faded, the hall filled with applause and gratitude. Sangeetha Samarpanam wasn't just a concert—it was a moment of connection, reflection, and tradition.
With the support of her teacher, the love of her family, and the presence of a caring community, Isha's debut marked the beginning of a beautiful journey.
Guests left with full hearts, smiling faces, and boxed sweets—a sweet close to a soulful evening.- _Viji Raja
- Our Overseas Correspondent Sheela Ramanan