Biography of Swati Tirunal

Born: 16 April 1813, Travancore
Died: 25 December 1846, Travancore

The greatest figure in Kerala's musical tradition, who ranks amongst the greatest personalities in the history of the Carnatic system of Indian music, is Swati Tirunal. He was born on April 16, 1813, and at the age of thirteen, he became well versed in Malayalam, Sanskrit and Persian languages. Just after three years he ascended the throne and ruled Kerala for 18 years.

Swati Tirunal was an excellent artist as well as an incomparable musician. He was well versed in the Vedas and Puranas. Tirunal composed about 350 songs. His compositions were not only in Kritinam but also in Padam, Varnam and Tilana. Tirunal's Carnatic music style was very much swayed by the writings of Saint Tyagraj.

Swati Tirunal wrote his songs in almost seven different languages and two-thirds of them in Kritinam Sanskrit. He also wrote a book based on Anupras and Tukbandi. The King Swati Tirunal also gave shelter to various able artists in his court. He also founded a council of musicians and gave full support to it. He died when he was only 34 years old.