About Us

The Philadelphia Tyagaraja Aradhana originated from a deep love for Carnatic music and a vision to unite our community through the timeless beauty of this classical art form. As our cultural landscape continues to grow and diversify, this initiative serves as a beacon for those who cherish the depth and discipline of South Indian classical music. Founded by Bhavika Marabathula, a high school senior and dedicated student of Carnatic music, our organisation represents a heartfelt effort to bring the rich tradition of music festivals, celebrated so vibrantly in India, to our own region. Her passion and commitment reflect a desire to celebrate heritage while building lasting musical connections.

Our Mission

We aim to bring the Carnatic music community together and create meaningful opportunities for performers at every stage of their journey. To support this mission, we strive to create an inclusive platform where students, enthusiasts, and professionals can share their art without barriers. Our mission is to bridge generational gaps by encouraging young artists to take the stage while learning from the wisdom and experience of seasoned musicians. This exchange of knowledge not only nurtures talent but also strengthens the cultural continuity that Carnatic music depends upon. By fostering these connections, we aim to keep our treasured art traditions alive and thriving for generations to come. Through collaboration and community engagement, we hope to build a strong foundation for musicians and listeners alike.

Our Vision

Inspired by the grand music festivals of India, where music holds a cherished place in both the art world and people’s hearts, we aspire to create our own music seasons right here in Philadelphia. Our vision is rooted in the belief that cultural expression flourishes when communities come together to celebrate and preserve their shared heritage. This is more than an event—it’s a movement to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where performers and audiences come together to celebrate excellence in Carnatic music. We hope these efforts will spark community growth, build lasting friendships, and elevate the presence of Carnatic music on a broader stage. We envision hosting world-class festivals that honour tradition while inspiring innovation, creating spaces where established artists can shine, and emerging talents can flourish. By blending time-honoured practices with fresh perspectives, we strive to craft experiences that resonate with both seasoned gurus and newcomers to the art form. Through these gatherings, we hope to spark renewed interest among younger students, encouraging them to learn, participate, and carry forward the legacy of Carnatic music. Ultimately, our vision extends beyond performances—it is about nurturing a lifelong appreciation for music and culture. The Philadelphia Tyagaraja Aradhana is a small gesture with a grand dream: to establish our region as a thriving hub for Carnatic music, where community, tradition, and artistry unite in harmony. With each step forward, we aim to build an enduring cultural institution that echoes the spirit of devotion, discipline, and joy at the heart of Carnatic music.