NAGAI R. MURALIDHARAN
Akademi Award: Carnatic Instrumental Music (Violin)

Born in 1958 in Chennai, Shri Nagai R. Muralidharan received his initial training in music from his mother Shrimati R. Komalavalli. He was further groomed in his art by Shri R.S. Gopalakrishnan.

Over the years Shri Muralidharan has won recognition as a distinguished violinist, and has been commended for the clarity of his notes and their rich tonal quality. His chaste, traditional style has won him a following among discerning listeners. A regular performer on All India Radio and Doordarshan, he is proficient both as a solo performer and accompanist. He has performed widely, and has accompanied many eminent vocalists in the field of Carnatic music.

Shri Muralidharan has been honoured for his work with several titles and awards conferred by the state and by sabhas. These honours include the Raja Annamalai Chettiar Memorial Award given by the Music Academy, Chennai (1993), the Kalaimamani title bestowed by the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram (2003), the Maharajapuram Santhanam Memorial Award (2009), and the Vani Kala Sudhakara title conferred by the Sri Thyaga Brahma Gana Sabha, Chennai (2010).

Shri Nagai R. Muralidharan receives the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his contribution to Carnatic instrumental music.