Tamil Music owes a lot to great saint Tyagaraja. He was not only a great saint but also a legendary musician. He gave a new direction to Tamil music. In fact, many new inclusions have been credited to the wisdom to saint Tyagaraja. Tamil Nadu celebrates his contribution by organizing Thyagaraja music festival every year. It is held during January and continues for eight days. Organized at a place names Thiruvaiyaru, the festival is a treat for music lovers. The venue Thiruvaiyaru is the place where great saint spent his whole life. He also attained Samadhi at this particular place.

The festival is organized on an annual basis. Wonderful musical shows are held at the venue. Top notch singers and carnatic musicians from all over the India come together to celebrate the legacy of Saint Thyagaraja in Tamil Nadu. Carnatic singers showcase their talent through classical music. The saint had composed five great compositions also known as Pancharathna Krithis. Some of the renowned groups perform these compositions and that incidentally is also the prime attraction of the festival. The performance is a way to pay homage to the great saint and also to honor his historical works. These five compositions are also known as five gems. His contribution to the Tamil music can be ascertained from the fact that almost all the great carnatic singers consider his as their role model. One can visit this place by rail, road or air. Easy availability of transport options is always available.

: Image courtesy hindu.com