Sat Jan 17 15:33:28 UTC 2026: # Community Music Project in Chennai Supports Visually Challenged Musicians and Underprivileged Families

The Story:

V.S. Anantharaman, a retired Development Officer from United India Insurance Company (UIIC), has founded “Ananda Raagham Innisai Kuzhu,” a karaoke orchestra that provides musical performances at the Chitlapakkam lake promenade in Chennai. The performances, which begin at 5:30 p.m. daily, feature a blend of Hindu, Christian, and Muslim devotional songs, followed by popular film music. This initiative not only entertains lake visitors but also supports visually challenged musicians, Syed and James, who are integral to the ensemble, and funds the education of underprivileged children.

Key Points:

  • V.S. Anantharaman founded “Ananda Raagham Innisai Kuzhu” after retiring from UIIC.
  • The orchestra performs daily at the Chitlapakkam lake promenade.
  • The repertoire includes devotional songs of various religions and popular film music.
  • The performances support visually challenged musicians Syed and James.
  • The project funds the education of six children and provides essential provisions to underprivileged families.
  • The annual expenditure is around ₹3 lakh.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grassroots initiatives can effectively combine artistic expression with social support.
  • Public spaces can be revitalized through community-based arts programs.
  • Music serves as a unifying force, promoting harmony and inclusivity.
  • Retirees can leverage their skills and passions to create meaningful community impact.

Impact Analysis:

This project exemplifies the potential for local arts initiatives to address social needs and enhance community well-being. The success of “Ananda Raagham Innisai Kuzhu” could inspire similar projects in other areas, encouraging a culture of using art to uplift underprivileged communities and foster social cohesion. The focus on supporting visually challenged musicians also highlights the importance of inclusivity and providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to showcase their talents and contribute to society. Long term, if this model is replicated, it can provide alternate funding for musicians and create a culture of patronage at a local level.

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