The Brand Ambassador of Khanjira
Vidwan Bangalore Sri Amrit N acclaimed as the "Brand Ambassador of Khanjira", stands out as one of the leading Khanjira artists globally. His performances are renowned for their power, versatility, speed, and intricate rhythmic patterns combined with musicality, aesthetics, and grace. These attributes have mesmerized audiences worldwide, bringing him widespread acclaim.
Know the Maestro.....
Vidwan Bangalore Sri Amrit N, celebrated as the "Brand Ambassador of Khanjira," stands as one of the world’s foremost Khanjira artists. His performances are renowned for their powerful, versatile style, blending speed and intricate rhythmic patterns with musicality, aesthetics, and grace, captivating audiences globally and earning him widespread acclaim. Hailing from a family of musicians, he is the son of renowned violinist Vidwan Sri Basavanagudi G. Nataraj. Amrit began learning Mridangam at the age of five under Vidwan Sri M. Vasudeva Rao and later continued advanced training under Vidwan Sri A.V. Anand. His journey in Khanjira began under the legendary Vidwan Late Sri G. Harishankar of Chennai, whose legacy he upholds and elevates today.
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In addition to his expertise in Khanjira, Sri Amrit has trained in violin and vocal music under his father and sister, Smt. Sunitha Ramabhadran. Remarkably, he became the youngest Khanjira artist to achieve the prestigious "A-Top Grade" from All India Radio, awarded by the Government of India. Since making his debut at the young age of seven, he has performed for over 35 years alongside India’s leading musicians at major festivals and events worldwide, as well as on popular television networks such as Doordarshan, Zee TV, and Jaya TV.
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Sri Amrit has garnered numerous awards in recognition of his contributions to Khanjira and Indian percussion, including the Aryabhata Youth Award, Khanjira Praveena, Ananya Yuva Puraskara, Nadajyothi Puraskara among others. His groundbreaking role in popularizing Khanjira as a solo instrument has been pivotal he has led numerous solo concerts and ensembles where the Khanjira takes center stage, helping to establish it as a vital part of both Indian and global music.
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Amrit has collaborated with an array of esteemed musicians, including Pandit Jasraj, Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna, Ustad Zakir Hussain and Grammy-winning artists like Victor Wooten and Ricky Kej. He has also worked with prominent music directors such as A.R. Rahman, further showcasing his versatility across genres and platforms. His solo performances with the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, the Wuppertal Symphony Orchestra in Germany, and the Shanxi Symphony Orchestra in China have marked significant milestones in the international appreciation of the Khanjira.
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Beyond performance, Sri Amrit is dedicated to teaching and nurturing future musicians. He has guided numerous students worldwide, releasing an instructional DVD titled Khanjira - The Journey Within, a valuable resource for Khanjira learners. His workshops and lectures at institutions such as the Berklee School of Music and Arizona State University have further contributed to the global spread of Indian rhythm and Khanjira techniques.
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Vidwan Sri Amrit N is a beacon in Indian percussion, preserving the traditional art of Khanjira while also establishing it as a unique solo instrument on the world stage. His contributions have not only enriched the classical music landscape but also positioned Khanjira firmly in the mainstream of international music, solidifying his legacy as a vital figure in Indian percussion.