Musician Sid Sriram launches 'Shivanar' globally
Image: Facebook
Indian Carnatic musician, music producer, playback singer and songwriter Sid Sriram will on Thursday release his interpretation of the Thiruppugazh 'Shivanar' globally.
The song 'Shivanar': A Celebration of Tamil Heritage and Devotion will be launched at the SA Tamil Federation Cultural Centre (NTVS Hall) in Silverglen, Chatsworth at 6pm.
In a social media post Sriram said: "I am calling upon all my South African well-wishers and fans to celebrate the song with me and everything that it means."
The song, inspired by the Thiruppugazh, taps into a deeply sacred Tamil heritage, combining profound meanings with Sriram's artistic interpretation.
Youth ambassador Revathi Pillay has called on all Murugan Bhakthans in South Africa to play this breathtaking piece by Sid Sriram at 6pm on April 3 and let it bring much-needed positive energy into the communities.
"I ask all Sid Sriram music lovers and Murugan Bhakthans to play Shivanar and understand what it means, slowly look into more verses of the Thiruppugazh, and unlock the answers it has to our daily struggles," said Pillay.
She said they will be chatting live to Sriram himself during the launch, to get his take on why and how he started the journey of recording Shivanar.
Kamakoti Mediaworks is currently promoting the song in South Africa, emphasising its transformative power and encouraging devotees to embrace Shivanar for the positivity and divine energy it promises to bring into their lives.
The Thiruppugazh (meaning "Holy Praise") is a revered collection of Tamil hymns composed by Saint Arunagirinathar in the 14th century.
It is a cornerstone of Tamil devotional literature, dedicated to Lord Muruga, the Hindu deity of valor, wisdom, and protection.
Each verse is laden with intricate metaphors, vivid imagery, and philosophical depth. It is renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its unique poetic structure, rhythm, and melodies, which have enchanted devotees for centuries.
The hymns often address themes of devotion, seeking divine grace, overcoming adversity, and spiritual enlightenment.
A distinctive feature of the Thiruppugazh is its ability to combine deeply profound insights with an accessible lyrical charm, making it a timeless treasure for Tamil-speaking communities worldwide.
Sriram, an India-born, California-raised musician, who has millions of fans worldwide, is acclaimed for his Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam songs, but is also making waves as a R&B and soul singer.
"Sid Sriram's Shivanar draws from this rich legacy. His rendition channels the prayerful essence of the Thiruppugazh while introducing modern interpretations that resonate with today's audience," said Pillay.