100 and still serving music

Pappukkutty Bagavathar is a rare sort of singer. A veteran classical singer who turned 100 last week, Bagavathar still feels sturdy enough to travel and teach music to his students.

Living in Perumbadappu of Western Kochi, he still practices vocal music every morning. Musicians call it sadhakam. Bagavathar travels long distance by bus and ferry to teach his students on Vypeen Island.

Bagavathar was once known as “Kerala Saigal” as he used to enthrall audiences by rendering legendary singer’s all time hit “Soja Rajakumari”.

Early this week, his fans accorded him a warm reception in Kochi. The program was graced by none other than legendary singer K.J. Yesudas.

Praising Bagavathar, Yesudas had said that Bhagavathar was the inspiration for his traverse into the world of music.

During the reception, Bhagavathar rendered Soja Rajakumari for the audience who had gathered there to felicitate him.

A few months back Pappukkutty Bhagavathar sang playback for a popular Malayalam movie that was hit.