Muthuswamy Dikshitar’s 249th birth anniversary was celebrated this year on 24 March, marked by various events, including the launch of the first episode of the second season of the series – Dikshita Kshetra Darshanam by Guruguhaamrta. Guruguhaamrta is a non-profit organisation devoted to propagating Muthuswami Dikshitar's legacy. Dikshita Kshetra Darshanam is an English documentary series that delves into Dikshitar’s compositions attributed to the temples of India. These compositions explicitly mention and reference the deities residing in various kshetras. Vocalist G. Ravi Kiran, the founder of Guruguhaamrta, endeavors to unravel the universe of Dikshitar and decipher its codes for the common man. Dikshita Kshetra Darshanam is one such project.

The event commenced with a captivating rendition of Panchamatanga Mukha, one of Dikshitar’s compositions in raga Malahari set to Roopaka tala by G. Ravi Kiran’s disciples. This was followed by a speech by G. Ravi Kiran, who briefly elucidated the genesis of Guruguhaamrta and Dikshitar’s prodigious contributions. He then proceeded to expound upon the upcoming Dikshita Kshetra Darshanam series episode. This particular episode explores the keertanam Sadhachaleswaram Bhavayeham in the raga Bhooplam, centered on the shrine of Lord Araneri Achaleswarar in the Tyagaraja temple at Tiruvarur. Following this informative speech, Director Rajiv Menon, as the Chief Guest, shared his reflections and perspectives on Dikshitar.

by Sudiksha Shriram

 Watch the Season 2; Episode 1