Dr. K. J. Yesudas — Sri Ramanavami Music Festival, Mysore, 2000

Live capture of the legendary Indian singer Dr. K. J. Yesudas at the Sri Ramanavami Music Festival in Mysore on 19 April 2000 (part one of a complete concert). An icon of Carnatic music and one of the most revered voices of the subcontinent, Yesudas gives a recital that blends raga virtuosity and devotion. The concert, in the pure Carnatic tradition, unfolds as a living dialogue with the audience: the artist takes requests, responds warmly and gradually draws the gathering into communion. This live filmed concert is a precious testament to Indian vocal art at the turn of the millennium, capturing the subtlety of the ornaments, the command of rhythm (tala) and the spiritual emotion specific to this repertoire. For lovers of world music and scholarly vocal traditions, a rare document that opens a window onto India’s classical scene and the charisma of a master heard by several generations. An hour of learned, inhabited music, straight from Mysore.