Balamuralikrishna, a veteran musician, singer and composer passed away at the age of 86 on Tuesday. Balamuralikrishna breathed his last at his Chennai residence. The legendary vocalist’s immense contribution towards Indian art and legacy will live forever.
Balamuralikrishna began his career at the tender age of eight. Initially, he used to sing at concerts in Andhra Pradesh and by the age of 15, Balamuralikrishna established himself as an accomplished musician. He became a regular performer at concerts during his teenage-years.
The legendary vocalist and composer was awarded the Padma Vibhushan – India’s second-highest civilian honour for his huge contribution towards Indian Art, in 1991.
In 2005, Balamuralikrishna was made Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.
His magnificent work has been a source of delight for lovers of Carnatic music for over three-quarters of a century. He also innovated the tala system with Thri Mukhi, Panchamukhi, Saptha Mukhi and Nava Mukhi.
Apart from being a vocalist, Balamuralikrishna also played the viola, mridangam, and kanjira. He had a slight interest in acting as well and gave a glimpse of his acting expertise in Telugu movie “Bhakta Prahalada” as Narada.
