2017 - Dr. M.S Subbulakshmi Birth Centenary | Commemorative Coin

The 2nd commemorative coin of 2017 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Dr. M. S Subbulakshmi.

Dr. M. S. Subbulakshmi, lovingly known as MSS, occupies a unique and exalted place in the cultural and musical history of India. Her voice, filled with divine depth and emotional purity, became synonymous with the very soul of Carnatic music. Born on September 16, 1916, in Madurai, she was introduced to music at an early age through her mother, Shanmukavadivu, a respected veena artist. From childhood, Subbulakshmi displayed a rare musical genius that would one day make her one of the most celebrated classical musicians of all time.

Her first public performance came when she was just eleven, and by the time she reached her teenage years, her recordings had already begun to win the admiration of listeners across South India. Her move to Chennai marked a turning point, placing her in the heart of the evolving Carnatic music scene. Under the guidance of her husband, T. Sadasivam, she expanded her artistic horizons, entered the world of cinema briefly, and used film and music as platforms to reach wider audiences. Her portrayal of Meerabai in the film Meera remains iconic, as her soulful bhajans carried devotion and simplicity that touched millions.

Subbulakshmi’s concerts were not merely musical events—they were spiritual experiences. Whether rendering complex kritis of Tyagaraja and Dikshitar or offering devotional hymns in languages beyond her mother tongue, she did so with unmatched clarity, restraint, and sincerity. Her voice had the profound ability to dissolve the boundaries between performer and listener, invoking a sense of devotion that transcended cultural and linguistic lines.

Her contributions extended far beyond artistic excellence. She became a global ambassador of Indian classical music, performing at prestigious venues such as the United Nations in 1966 on the occasion of UN Day. Her international performances elevated the global recognition of Carnatic music and highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage. Equally remarkable was her philanthropic spirit. She donated the proceeds of countless performances to social and humanitarian causes, embodying the values of compassion and service.

Over her lifetime, Dr. M. S. Subbulakshmi received some of the country’s highest honours, including the Bharat Ratna, making her the first musician to receive India’s highest civilian award. She was also a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, the Padma Bhushan, and the Padma Vibhushan, each recognizing not only her musical brilliance but also her extraordinary influence on society.

Dr. M. S. Subbulakshmi’s legacy remains timeless. Her recordings continue to inspire students, musicians, and devotees alike. Her life stands as a radiant example of dedication, humility, and devotion—qualities that defined not only her art but her very being. She elevated music to a spiritual plane, leaving behind a treasure of melodies that continue to enrich the cultural fabric of India.

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