Pandit Vijay Raghav Rao

Born: 3 November 1925

Died: 30 November 2011

• He was an Indian flutist, composer, choreographer, musicologist, poet and fiction writer.
• He was awarded the Padma Shri by Government of India in 1970 and in 1982 the Sangeet Natak Akademi in Creative and Experimental music category, the highest for performing artist conferred by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s National Academy for Music, Dance and Drama.
• He has shaped and influenced the essential form and derivatives of a culture known to the world as classically Indian.
• It can be authoritatively said that with his performances on the Indian flute in front of audiences worldwide (and recordings thereof), he has interpreted ancient music for modern ears with an understanding that is chaste, and elocution that stimulates intellects, both mature and young.
• His genius has also expressed itself in critically acclaimed works for modern orchestra and ballet ensembles.
• Several award-winning features and short films are shown at some of the most prestigious international film festivals carry his experimental music.
• Critics and connoisseurs of his expression in Asia, Europe and America have responded with meaningful praise.

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