The Vision of Sree Rama Seva Mandali
Our mission is to create a space that celebrates Indian classical music, preserves the rich cultural heritage of India, and fosters a strong sense of community. We strive to inspire individuals to explore and develop their unique talents, creativity, and passion for the arts.
Indian Classical Music
Through concerts, workshops, and classes, we aim to provide opportunities for musicians and music enthusiasts alike to enjoy and learn from the rich traditions of Indian music.
Cultural Preservation
Our regular events, workshops, and classes provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents while also educating and inspiring the younger generation.
Community Service
We believe in giving back to society. Our community service initiatives include providing education and support to the underprivileged.
Creating a Vibrant Community
Through our various events, programs, and classes, we bring together people from diverse backgrounds to learn, grow, and celebrate our shared cultural heritage.
SVN Rao Memorial Hall
S.V. Narayanaswamy Rao Hall is a cultural venue dedicated to the promotion and celebration of Carnatic classical music, dance, and various other traditional arts.
Established by the respected Sree Rama Seva Mandali Trust, this hall serves as a memorial to our founder SVN Rao, honoring his commitment to preserving and promoting Indian culture.
The hall is designed to host classes, concerts, dance performances, and engaging cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of India.
Surrounded by lush greenery, the venue offers an atmosphere of serenity and tranquility.
S.V. Narayanaswamy Rao - The Visionary Behind Sree Rama Seva Mandali
Shivarapatna Vasudev Rao Narayanaswamy Rao, born on December 21, 1924, S.V. Narayanaswamy Rao passionately established the Ramanavami Music Festival in Bangalore when he was only 14. His devotion to Rama and inspiration from the freedom movements and Bal Gangadhar Tilak's Ganesha Festival led him to organize Holi and Ganesha festivals. In 1939, he founded the annual Ramanavami celebrations to promote unity through bhakti, culture, and music.
The Sacred Echo of 'Rama'
The invocation of Lord Rama's name has been a source of solace and strength in India, underscored by Gandhiji's last words and mirrored by a young patriot's cry for divine help during a freedom protest in Bangalore in 1937, an event that profoundly impacted SVN Rao.
Inspiration from a Moment of Crisis
A freedom movement protest in Bangalore, where a young patriot was shot, profoundly impacted Narayanaswamy Rao, motivating him to unite people through culture and music.
The Genesis of a Cultural Tradition
After organizing local Holi and Ganesha festivals, SVN Rao was inspired to use leftover funds for a new purpose. In 1938, he initiated the first Ramanavami festival in Bangalore, laying the foundation for what would become a significant cultural and spiritual celebration.
Growth of the Ramanavami Celebrations
Over the years, SVN Rao's small bhajan gathering evolved into the Sree Ramaseva Mandali's Ramanavami festival. It encompasses spiritual discourses, music competitions, and performances by celebrated musicians, showcasing India's diverse cultural fabric.
A Legacy of Secularism and Devotion
We continue SVN Rao's work, emphasizing the secular essence of the Ramanavami concerts. The festival, known for its devotion through music, has seen legendary artists like Amjad Ali Khan and Yesudas perform without a fee, solely for the blessings of Lord Rama.
Community Support for Ramanavami Festival
The Ramanavami festival has thrived on community support, with contributions from diverse sources, including Saleh Ahmed's decades-long provision of chairs and Raja Enterprises' construction of the venue.
A Lineage of Musical Greats
From the mid-1940s, the Sree Ramaseva Mandali's Ramanavami Festival showcased legends like R.K. Srikantan and M.S. Subbulakshmi, setting a precedent for a rich tradition of classical performances. This tradition continued robustly, featuring a continuous stream of veteran artists such as Veena Doreswamy Iyengar and emerging talents, underlining the festival's role as a crucible of classical Indian music.
Continuing the Tradition with Contemporary Stars
The festival has been a platform for both established veterans and emerging stars in the Indian classical music scene, including Balamurali Krishna, violinist T. Chowdiah, Sudha Raghunathan and the Lalgudi lineage. M.S. Subbulakshmi's 31 performances at the Mandali, including a live broadcast in 1980, highlight the festival's prestige and the deep respect artists hold for this platform.
Inaugurations by Eminent Dignitaries
Historic inaugurations by notable figures such as Jayachamaraja Wodeyar and C.Rajagopalachari, alongside Presidents and Prime Ministers, have lent the Ramanavami Festivals a distinguished aura. These occasions, enriched by the contributions of musicologists and national leaders, have cemented the festival's place in India's cultural calendar.
SVN Rao's Dedication Beyond Duty
SVN Rao's commitment to spreading 'bhakti through music' led him to prioritize his devotion over his professional obligations at HAL and KGID, fully dedicating himself to the Ramanavami festival's success. His early collaborations with legends like T. Chowdiah and flute Mahalingam played a pivotal role in establishing the festival's reputation, enticing star performers to participate for the love of music and devotion.
A Visionary in Cultural Propagation
SVN Rao's passion for meaningful music since the late 1930s inspired the birth of numerous Ramaseva Samitis and Mandalis across Bangalore, marking him as a pioneer in promoting Indian classical music during Ramanavami.
Ramanavami: A Temple of Music in Bangalore
The grandeur and sanctity of the Ramanavami festival's pandal have led luminaries like Sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan to describe it as a 'Temple of Music'. This description aptly captures the essence of Ramanavami at the Ramaseva Mandali, where music and wisdom ('Gaana-Jnana') flow in abundance, enriching Bangalore's cultural landscape.
Events - Coming Soon
Explore our calendar of events and activities, including discourses, classical music concerts, dance performances, workshops, and festivals. Join us in celebrating the richness of Indian culture.
Contact
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions, suggestions, or feedback.
SVN Rao Memorial Hall
#185, Nettigere, Karnataka, 560082, India
Call Us
SRSM Trust+91 988 608 8869
Nettigere: +91 861 824 4821