Sanjay Subrahmanyan is a renowned Carnatic vocalist who has bagged several awards. The 47-year-old global performer has been chosen for ‘Sangita Kalanidhi’ award of The Music Academy. A qualified chartered accountant, Subrahmanyan  became a full-time musician in 2000.


Forms of music I love besides Carnatic: Hindustani classical music, Tamil film music from the 70s and the 80s, and a bit of western classical sometimes.

Is it a challenge to take Carnatic music to the masses? Yes, definitely.

My take on fusion music: It satisfies an important space and need for listeners to get into specific forms.

The biggest influences in my life: My teachers and some of the great Carnatic musicians of the past.

My greatest strength: My acknowledgement of my flaws and my continuous efforts to get over them.

The thing that drove me closer to music: Just the sound of it, I guess!

My passion other than music: Reading, watching cricket, playing strategic board games, collecting stamps.

My favourite quote: Expectation can bring disappointment.

Happiness to me means: The simple things in life, good food, happy family, exposure to the arts, thrills of a sporting contest.

At present I am busy with: My upcoming concerts in Chennai.

A piece of advice to aspiring vocalists: Sing every day!

I would like to be remembered as: Not sure if I can control that, can I?