A half-century of rhythm: T.R. Chandran from Thrissur, a constant at Chembai Sangeetholsavam

For T.R. Chandran and his wife, Sathi, music has been a lifelong source of strength, purpose and joy. Despite losing their eyesight to congenital visual impairment, the couple have remained devoted to music, making it both their profession and passion.

A resident of Thichur in Thrissur district, Chandran has an unbroken association with the Chembai Sangeetholsavam at Guruvayur since 1977. As the festival celebrates its golden jubilee, his uninterrupted participation for 49 years stands out as a remarkable musical journey.

A Ganabhushanam graduate of the Chembai Memorial Music College, Palakkad, Chandran served as a music teacher at the Guruvayur Devaswom’s Sree Krishna Higher Secondary School for 29 years, retiring in 2006. His eyesight had deteriorated considerably even before he joined service and eventually faded completely. Yet, he continued teaching without interruption, commuting from Thichur to Guruvayur, often changing two or three buses.

Beyond school hours, he taught hundreds of students at home and continues to impart music lessons to those who approach him. He is also proficient in playing the Nadaswaram.

The Chembai festival holds a special place in his heart. He first performed the Swathi Thirunal composition at the festival in 1977.

“The mental happiness and energy I derive from singing at the festival are incomparable. For those five minutes, I forget all the difficulties of life and immersed myself in the Lord,” says Chandran.

His wife, Sathi, a Ganabhushanam graduate of the S.R.V. Music College, taught music at Pengamukku High School for 31 years. Her eyesight too deteriorated over the years, and she is now bedridden due to illness.

Chandran’s wish remains simple: to continue offering his musical prayers before Guruvayurappan at the Chembai Mandapam.