Tamil songs won me rasikas' hearts: Aruna Sairam

Q Who first came to your mind when you heard that you have won Sangita Kalanidhi title?

My parents.
 
Q You have performed in many places in India and other countries. Which city or state in India and abroad (next to Chennai) you like the most?  Why?

I enjoyed performing in Vithoba Temple in Pandharpur,  It was an exhilarating experience. Recently, I had a concert in Jerusalem, Israel. The response was unbelievable and overwhelming. I would like to perform there again if  I get another opportunity.
 
Q Your favourite five krithis which you regularly sing in concerts?
Muthuswami Dikshitar's Rangapura Vihara, Shyama Shastri's  Kanaka Shaila Viharini, Thyagaraja's  Chakkani raja Margamu.  Oothakadu Kavi's Kalinga Narthana thillana and Namdev's Theertha Vittala Abhang.
 
Q What is your take on Tamil devotional songs?
Tamil songs won a place for me in rasikas' hearts. I enjoy singing compositions of Suddhananda Bharathi, Papanasam Sivan and  Gopala Krishna Bharathi.
 
Q You have conceptualized and performed thematic concerts with national and international musicians in India and abroad. Which collaborations do you cherish most?
My concerts with Ustad Zakir Hussain  and mandolin legend U. Srinivas.