Explore Indian Instruments
Vanamala Center for Art and Culture organised the third edition of Chinnari Sangeeta—a workshop designed to help children explore the rich world of Indian musical instruments. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from kids, young adults, and adults, all eager to understand the many dimensions of our musical heritage.
Each week featured a new set of instruments and experts who interacted with the children, offering hands-on experiences and demonstrations that sparked curiosity and joy.
Week 1 opened with Dr. Meera ma’am introducing the children to various instruments through engaging visuals. Gowri Sanath getting all to recite Konakkol to incite interest in this beautiful art form. Vid. Deepthi inspired creativity by teaching the children to make their own Khanjira, which they proudly carried home.
Week 2 helped the children explore a range of string and wind instruments, with Dr. Meera ma’am guiding them through visuals and demonstrations that deepened their understanding of sound and structure. Vid. Satyaveera demonstrated instruments such as the flute, bansuri, and harmonium, keeping the children actively engaged through lively questions and answers.
Week 3 introduced the children to percussion and traditional wind instruments through Dr. Meera ma’am’s detailed visual presentation. Unique instruments like the rana kahale and kombu were showcased, allowing the children to experience their characteristic sounds. The session was further elevated by the presence of Vid. Sampagodu Vighnaraja, who mesmerised everyone with his Sumukha Veena, an instrument he has personally crafted. The audience was spellbound by its resonance and the dexterity with which he played it.
Week 4 marked the grand finale of the workshop. Ganakalashree Vid. Anoor Ananthakrishna Sharma—fondly known as Shivu Sir—introduced the children to a vibrant array of laya vadya. It was an unforgettable experience to witness the wide range of percussion instruments and understand their roles across different musical genres. A short yet captivating tani avartanam held everyone’s attention and showcased the magic of rhythm and mastery.
The workshop was wonderfully received by all participants. It offered an immersive and inspiring learning experience, leaving many children motivated to pursue and explore the musical instruments that resonated with them the most.