94-Year-Old Music Legend Honors 51 Educators in Chennai

A 94-year-old music master just proved that the greatest artists don't just create beauty—they lift up those who spread it to others.

T.V. Gopalakrishnan, a legendary musician and mridangam drummer, organized a golden jubilee celebration in Chennai on Saturday to honor the unsung heroes of Indian classical arts. His Academy of Indian Music and Arts (AIMA) presented the 'Acharya Ratna' award to 51 music and dance educators from across South India who have spent decades teaching younger generations.

The ceremony also recognized two art patrons with the 'Chembai Sangeet Samrakshak' award: industrialist Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti and Jayasankar Viswanathan, COO of UNEECO in Bahrain. Both have supported classical music and dance through their generous patronage.

J. Radhakrishnan, chairman of Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation, praised Gopalakrishnan for transforming thousands of lives through music, discipline, and grace. "We should all learn from his humility—he stands as a huge inspiration," he said, adding that history would remember him for carefully selecting and honoring these 51 senior educators.

At an age when most people have long retired, Gopalakrishnan remains a living force in India's classical music scene. Apoorva Haree, executive director of Rajalakshmi Group, highlighted how his devotion to art exemplifies true lifelong commitment.

Gopalakrishnan himself shared a simple message at the event: only an inquiring mind will see growth in life. His words capture the curiosity and dedication that has defined both his nine-decade career and the educators he honored.

The celebration recognizes something often overlooked—teachers who preserve cultural treasures work quietly for years, shaping artists who will carry traditions forward. By honoring them publicly, Gopalakrishnan ensures their contributions won't be forgotten.

In a world that often celebrates only performers on stage, one 94-year-old musician is making sure the teachers behind the curtain finally get their standing ovation.