Dubai:The International Chamber for Indian Music and Culture, an international initiative of the Parakkadathu Koyickal Trust (Tripunithura, Kerala), hosted the June edition of its signature Carnatic concert series, “Sruthi Mathaa… Laya Pithaa,” on June 13, 2025, from Dubai, UAE. This monthly online concert series is devoted to promoting Intellectual Enlightenment Globally through the classical art form of Carnatic music.
The June concert featured accomplished musicians from Dubai:
- Vocal: Kum. Mithra Pradeesh
- Violin: Vidushi Smt. Archana Krishnakumar
- Mridangam: Vidwan Sri Mathur R. Krishnakumar
- Ghatam: Vidwan Sri Manjith Mohanan
This is the fourth consecutive month of concerts organized by the International Chamber, which operates under the Parakkadathu Koyickal Trust and is affiliated with the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, Government of Kerala.
A Unique Platform Bridging Borders
“Sruthi Mathaa… Laya Pithaa” stands out as a unique international platform that supports both emerging and established musicians—providing performance opportunities for Non-Resident Indian (NRI) artists as well as domestic talent from India. The platform helps to bridge the gap between Indian and international audiences and performers.
“This is a rare stage that introduces young talents from India to global audiences, and vice versa,” said Sri Udaya Varma, Patron of Varma Association UAE (VAU), during his felicitation address.
Veena – The Divine Instrument
In her keynote speech, Smt. Devi Vasudevan Namboothiri, Head of the Department of Veena, International Chamber, highlighted the significance of the Veena, revered as the “Queen of Instruments” in South Indian classical tradition.
She emphasized the instrument’s historical and cultural importance, noting its musical, cognitive, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and academic benefits.
“Veena transcends age and gender. It is a divine instrument with no boundaries,” she said.
Dignitaries and Organizers
- Smt. P.K. Ushadevi, Chairperson of the Parakkadathu Koyickal Trust, delivered the Welcome Address.
- Sri P.K. Sajith Kumar Varma, International Coordinator of the International Chamber and PK Koyickal Trust, delivered the Vote of Thanks.
Concert Schedule and Vision
The monthly concert series, the first of its kind in Carnatic music history, aims to host:
- 12 concerts annually – alternating between India and international venues
- Concerts will be held on every second Friday of the month
- Minimum 6 concerts will be hosted from India, and 6 concerts internationally
Each program will be broadcast across national and international media platforms, including official channels of the PK Koyickal Trust.
The initiative aligns with the cultural goals of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to foster rich musical experiences globally and build a strong cultural bridge between communities.
Symbolic Significance
The name “Sruthi Mathaa… Laya Pithaa” reflects the foundational elements of Carnatic music:
- Sruthi (Pitch) – revered as the Mother
- Layam (Rhythm) – honored as the Father
The concert series is dedicated to all revered mothers, symbolically represented by Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswathi.
Currently, the International Chamber is connected with musicians and artists from 12 countries and is continuously expanding its network to promote Carnatic music on a truly global scale.
Website: www.pkkoyickaltrust.com
