V. Selvaganesh

Biography

V. Selvaganesh is an acclaimed Indian percussionist and composer, widely recognized for his contributions to Indian classical music and contemporary fusion genres. Born into a family of illustrious musicians, he is the son of Grammy-winning percussion maestro T. H. Vikku Vinayakram, a renowned ghatam player. Growing up in a musically enriched environment, Selvaganesh was introduced to rhythm and percussion at an early age. His father’s guidance and the family's strong Carnatic music tradition played a significant role in shaping his career.

Musical Career: 

V. Selvaganesh is celebrated for his mastery of the kanjira, a South Indian frame drum, as well as his skills in other percussion instruments such as the ghatam, mridangam, and drums. His ability to blend traditional Indian rhythms with contemporary styles has earned him a global reputation.

Association with Shakti: 

Selvaganesh gained international fame as a member of the legendary fusion band Shakti. He joined the group in the late 1990s, collaborating with music stalwarts like John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain, and U. Srinivas. His performances with Shakti showcased his exceptional rhythm techniques and ability to seamlessly merge Carnatic percussion with jazz and world music.

Independent Projects: 

Apart from his work with Shakti, Selvaganesh has collaborated with various Indian and international artists across genres, including classical, fusion, and film music. He has performed at prestigious venues and music festivals worldwide, cementing his reputation as a versatile percussionist.

Film Scoring: 

Selvaganesh expanded his repertoire by venturing into film music composition. He made his debut as a music director with the Tamil film Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu (2009), which received critical acclaim for its fresh and evocative soundtrack. His work as a composer reflects his deep understanding of rhythm and melody, often blending traditional and modern elements.

Collaborations and Legacy: 

Selvaganesh has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including A. R. Rahman, Jonas Hellborg, and Zakir Hussain. His work often serves as a bridge between traditional Indian music and global contemporary styles, introducing Indian percussion to wider audiences.

Family and Personal Life: 

Continuing the family’s musical legacy, Selvaganesh has also been instrumental in mentoring young musicians and promoting Indian classical music. His son, Swaminathan Selvaganesh, is following in his footsteps as a percussionist, showcasing the family's continued contribution to the music world.