Hari Herambanathan

🪔 About

Thanjavur Hariharan is a distinguished Bharatanatyam Guru and mridangam vidwan, embodying a centuries-old hereditary tradition of the Thanjavur bani. He is the son of the renowned Natyacharya Guru T. Herambanathan, a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and Kalaimamani, who is a senior choreographer and dance teacher of the Thanjavur nattuvanga tradition. Hariharan's lineage boasts a profound historical connection to the Brihadeeswarar temple in Thanjavur, having served the sacred institution for generations. His grandmother, Jeevayi Amma, held the esteemed position of Kudamukha Dasi, possessing the right to perform Kumbha Harathi to the deity, while his grandfather, Bhavu Pillai, was a revered 'Muttukkarar' (mridangam player) at the temple. This deep-rooted heritage underscores Hariharan's commitment to preserving and propagating the authentic Thanjavur style of Bharatanatyam. Hariharan actively contributes to the continuity of this rich artistic legacy, engaging in nattuvangam and dance choreography, often in collaboration with his illustrious father. His expertise extends to imparting traditional knowledge, as evidenced by his co-leadership with Guru Thanjavur B. Herambanathan in a masterclass held in July 2019. During this intensive session, they meticulously taught the intricate pada varnam “Mōhalāhiri Koṇḍēn Sāmi,” a composition by the revered Tanjore Quartet Sivanandam, to a select group of Bharatanatyam artists from both India and abroad. This initiative highlights his dedication to ensuring the precise transmission of the Thanjavur bani to the next generation of dancers. He plays a vital role in the Thanjavur Heritage Arts and Cultural Academy, an institution founded by his father, Guru T. Herambanathan. This academy is instrumental in organizing significant cultural events such as the Chinna Melam festival, which celebrates traditional arts at the Brihadeeswarar temple. Through his active involvement, Hariharan helps bridge the historical depth of the Thanjavur tradition with contemporary artistic practice. His multifaceted contributions as a teacher, performer, and custodian of his family's artistic heritage are crucial in sustaining the vibrant classical dance landscape of Thanjavur, India.