Pantula Rama, the senior vocalist isn't a regular on the Bangalore circuit. But she is here this evening ( Monday, April 3) to perform in Vyalikaval, With her is violinist-husband M S N Murthy; they mostly team up for concerts.
Bashyam, the busybody curator of the music fest at this time of the year here says that of late, he has to work with tight budgets and can invite only two or three artistes from outside Bangalore.
The young V. Deepika was another invitee this season.
Big names really do not work in places where the rasikas' attendance is dictated by the changing face of the area. And Bashyam, who has 'connects' across the south Indian states as far as artistes go, plays it safe nowadays.
This place also hosts a series of concerts at Navaratri time.