Trinity of Carnatic music

The Trinity of Carnatic Music, also known as the Three Jewels of Carnatic Music, refers to the outstanding trio of composer-musicians of Carnatic music in the 18th century—Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri. Prolific in composition, the Trinity of Carnatic music is known for creating a new era in the history of carnatic music by bringing about a noticeable change in what was the existing carnatic music tradition.[1] Compositions of the Trinity of Carnatic music are recognized as being distinct in style, and original in handling ragas.[1] All three composers were born in Thiruvarur, formerly part of Thanjavur District in Tamilnadu.[2] M. S. Subbalakshmi, D. K. Pattammal, and M. L. Vasanthakumari, who are carnatic musicians of the 20th century, are popularly referred to as the female Trinity of Carnatic Music.[3]

Name Years Language of Compositions Mudra Known for
Syama Sastri 1762–1827 Telugu and Sanskrit Śyāma Krishna Complex Talas, Swarajati
Tyagaraja 1767–1847 Telugu and Sanskrit Tyagaraja Pancharatna Kritis
Muthuswami Dikshitar 1775–1835 Sanskrit; Some in Manipravalam Guruguha Nottuswara, Navagraha Kritis
  1. ^ a b Panikkar (2002), p44
  2. ^ http://travel.sulekha.com/thiruvarur-a-land-of-culture-and-carnatic-music_travelogue_600372 [dead link‍]
  3. ^ India Today. Vol. 34. Thomson Living Media India Limited. 2009. p. 16. D.K. Pattammal 90, who along with M.S. Subbulakshmi and M.L. Vasanthakumar formed the female trinity' of Carnatic