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CHENDAMELAM

ABOUT CHENDAMELAM

What happens when enthusiastic music lovers and a vibrant community join? We get our own ChendaMelam team

The journey started when a group of music lovers expressed their intention to learn the art of playing Chenda in the General Body meeting of Pitruvedhi. The proposal was accepted enthusiastically with unconditional backing of the entire Parish. This marked the start of the journey to play Chenda.

Initially, we had several participants who were eager and willing to invest the time and energy to learn the Chenda. Classes were held every Sunday under a trained, skilled and renowned Chenda master Mr. Arun. His dedication in teaching Chenda is unparalleled. He regularly visits Bangalore to personally impart the training. At other times, his ably trained experts impart the Chenda training to us.

After the initial euphoria, due to unforeseen and unavoidable situations, few of the initial participants had to end their journey of learning Chenda. The rest continued their journey. What followed next was training, rigorous practice leading to perfection.

Our first Arangettam or public performance of SAFC Chenda Team was held on December 2018 at our Parish auditorium. The performance was an astounding success and we received a lot of appreciation from our Parishioners. This news spread far and wide.

We were invited by many churches and other associations based in Bangalore. To date, apart from our St. Alphonsa Forane Church, we have performed at the following churches:

• St. Sebastian’s Church, Mathikere
• Swargarani Church, Raja Rajeshwari Nagar
• Mother of Sorrows Church, Hebbagudi

We also had the opportunity to play Chenda at the Onam and other festive celebration conducted by different associations in Bangalore.

As we continue to make steadfast progress in mastering Chenda, our team would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to God the Almighty for showering us with His blessings. Our beloved Vicar Rev. Fr. Roy Vattakunnel, who offers his unstinted support and encouragement. Last, but not the least our own Parishioners who always cheer us enthusiastically when we stand out there and play Chenda.

Quoting from Robert Frost “… and miles to go before I sleep”, we have a long way before we can master the art of playing chenda. But, with your support, prayers and blessings this journey will be short.

GALLERY

Chendamelam-Aranghettam
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