Srirangam Gopalaratnam

🪔 About

Srirangam Gopalaratnam (c. 1939 – March 16, 1993) was a distinguished Indian Carnatic classical vocalist and a multifaceted artist, renowned for her precise command over pitch and rhythm. Born to Varadachari and Subhadramma in Pushpagiri, Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, India, she displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age, performing Harikathas. She received her foundational training in Carnatic music under Kavirayuni Joga Rao and later under the eminent Dr. Sripada Pinakapani, earning a diploma in music in 1956. Gopalaratnam's expertise extended beyond vocal music to include the exposition of classical dance forms such as Kuchipudi and Yakshagana, as well as folk forms like Javali and Yenki Patalu. She was a prominent figure at All India Radio (AIR) Vijayawada, serving as a staff artist and contributing to programs like 'Bhakti Ranjani,' which promoted classical and devotional music. Her academic career included significant leadership roles: she was Principal of Maharajah's Government College of Music and Dance in Vizianagaram from 1979 to 1980, and Principal of the Government Music College in Hyderabad from 1979 to 1988. She also held positions as Professor and Dean of the Telugu University Music department. Her influence as a guru shaped many aspiring musicians, with notable disciples including Dr. L. Venkata Gangadhara Sastry and Rajyalakshmi. Awards & Honours: Padma Shri (1992), Asthana Vidushi, Ghana Kokila (1962).