Mandala Makers Festival Presents, U Rajesh (mandolin) with Praveen Narayan (tabla)

Mandolin U. Rajesh
Mandolin U. Rajesh is a renowned Indian mandolin virtuoso, composer, and music director known for his mastery of Carnatic classical music and global collaborations. Born into a musical family in Andhra Pradesh and trained by his father and legendary brother U. Srinivas, Rajesh began performing at a young age and has since appeared at prestigious venues worldwide including Lincoln Center (New York), BBC Live (London), and major festivals across Europe, North America, and Asia. His collaboration on John McLaughlin’s album Floating Point earned a Grammy nomination. Through concerts, recordings, and teaching, Rajesh continues to expand the voice of the mandolin while remaining rooted in the spirit of Carnatic tradition.

Praveen Narayan
Praveen Narayan is an accomplished tabla artist trained in both Carnatic and Hindustani classical traditions. Born into a family of musicians, he first learned rhythm from his father, mridangam artist Narayana Swamy, and later trained under tabla maestros Muthu Kumar and Ramdas Palsule. Praveen performs regularly with Mandolin U. Rajesh and Veena maestro Rajhesh Vaidhya and has collaborated with distinguished artists including Aruna Sairam, Bombay Jayashree, Sivamani, and Grammy-winning percussionists T. H. Vikku Vinayakram and V. Selvaganesh. His performances span international stages including the United Nations in Copenhagen, Ozora Festival in Hungary, and MILFF Festival in Malaysia.