Sangita Kalanidhi T.M. Krishna’s concert, with VSP Gayatri Sivani on the violin, Sumesh Narayanan on the mridangam, and Sai Subramanian on the morsing, was truly a delight. Krishna began with Sahana, starting from the lower octave and skipping the typical prayogams associated with the raga. His voice carried a warmth and a weight that made the Sahana a tad more beautiful. The composition Rama Ika nannu brovarada was rendered at a measured pace, exuding grandeur. Rakti ragas have long been Krishna’s forte, and this rendition only reaffirmed that. Sumesh’s accompaniment was outstanding with his soft strokes enhancing the mood and his theermanams adding just the right touch. The final sangati in the pallavi, which traversed the scale, drew spontaneous “ahas” from the audience. The niraval at Thaamasambu jesithe was a masterclass. Krishna’s skill in niraval singing is unrivalled among contemporary performers. Every line flowed naturally into the next, with no trace of repetition or monotony, as is common these days in niraval. The kalpana swarams that followed were equally captivating, particularly the mel kala swarams at the pallavi. VSP Gayatri provided poised and responsive support, with jaarus and patterns.