Shankar Mahadevan Mourns Sridhar Parthasarathy, Recalls 40-Year Musical Bond

Singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan has mourned the demise of renowned mridangam artist Sridhar Parthasarathy, remembering their four-decade-long musical association.

Taking to Instagram, Mahadevan shared an emotional tribute, describing the loss as deeply personal and one that has left the music fraternity devastated.

Recalling their journey together, Mahadevan said his first-ever Carnatic classical concert, around 40 years ago, featured Parthasarathy on the mridangam. The two musicians went on to share years of performances, conversations and memories.

In his post, Mahadevan wrote, “Just cannot digest this!! A huge loss for me and the music fraternity! Our dearest beloved Sridhar Parthasarthy, one of the finest Mridangists and exceptional musician has left us devastated!”

He also recalled the circumstances of Parthasarathy's passing, noting that the musician died while performing at a concert. “He passed away while playing a concert!! Can you imagine? What a way to exit this planet!” he wrote.

Mahadevan extended his condolences to the late musician's family, praying for their strength during the difficult time.

Parthasarathy was a respected figure in Carnatic classical music and one of the accomplished mridangam players on the international circuit. He performed alongside prominent musicians, including Shankar Mahadevan, Louis Banks, Karl Peters and Taufiq Qureshi, and featured at concert halls and music festivals worldwide.

His passing marks a significant loss for the Indian classical music community, with tributes highlighting his contribution to percussion and his decades-long musical legacy.