PROF. M.A.LAKSHMITHATHACHARYA- THE UNFORGETTABLE MASTER

Prof. M. A. Lakshmithathacharya, an exceptional professor who taught me Sanskrit during my Master's degree at Bangalore University, holds a unique place in my life. His exemplary teaching has left an indelible mark on me.

“ते हि नो दिवसा गताः” - Gone are those days, but the memory remains evergreen.

Our journey extended beyond the classroom during my MPhil research on Music in Manasollasa. This 12th-century encyclopedic work by Chalukya Someshwara III includes two chapters devoted to vocal and instrumental music. At the time, apart from a Hindi PhD thesis and corrupted text volumes from the Gaikwad Oriental Research Institute, no substantial source material existed. It was under his profound guidance that I managed to decipher these texts. His unmatched knowledge of Sanskrit and keen insight into music theory were my lighthouse during countless hours of effort.

Inspired by his encouragement, I continued my research with the same topic, under the guidance of Dr. Meera Chakravarthy, which resulted in the submission of my thesis titled “Contribution of Abhilashitarthachintamani to Indian Music” which fetched me a doctoral degree.

His appreciation for my musical talent was boundless. He consistently provided platforms to showcase my work, including composing music for Tiruppavai verses and performing them at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. A cherished memory is the Gitagovinda production as a Geyaroopaka, performed with my peers at a grand university event.

Years after my graduation from the university, he extended a special invitation for me to present a paper on “Naradya Shiksha” at one of the prestigious seminars he organized from the Academy of Sanskrit Research, Melkote. This opportunity not only recognized and encouraged my humble contributions to the field of Sanskrit but also stood as undeniable proof of his remarkable attention to my steady progress in both Sanskrit and music, even after my academic journey at the university had formally concluded.

A deeply personal moment unfolded at Melkote, during a specially arranged program in the open-air theatre. This event featured a performance by around 20 participants whom I had trained along with Vid. D. Balakrishna, in a workshop on 10 compositions of Pu. Ti. Narasimhachar. Despite his advanced age, he attended the entire program and left just before the vote of thanks, leaving a note that I visited his nearby home. There, I found him standing, awaiting my arrival with a glass of badam milk in his hand—a gesture so thoughtful, as if he had anticipated every moment of my limited time. This heartfelt hospitality was followed by a shawl and tambulam presentation, accompanied by his affectionate words: “You have grown too tall, my dear Sathyavathi. This is a token of my love and appreciation for all you have achieved.” The warmth and genuine pride radiating from his eyes have etched an indelible image in my memory, one that I will cherish forever. Tears well up in my eyes as I share this.

“हतेषु देहेषु गुणा धरन्ते” - Though he is no longer with us physically, his virtues, blessings, and unwavering kindness live on eternally.

Prof. M. A. Lakshmithathacharya was more than a teacher; he was a mentor, a guide, and a repository of affection and wisdom. His legacy continues to shape my path, and his memory is a treasure I will carry through my life.