The name itself brings delight to many of his fans. There would be no essence in Telugu cinema if it were not for Ghantasala's touching songs, it is popularly said. Numerous singers rise and fall and the pop culture has significantly impacted Telugu cinema music, and yet the magic of Ghantasala's music still remains - its unique blend of religious zeal and a pensive romance still standing out.
The 79th birthday celebrations of the late Telugu playback singer of the yesteryears started with a tributary program by a noted cultural organization, Raagasaptaswaram. Staged at the Thyagaraja Gana Sabha, the 'musical night of Ghantasala' carried such a reflective aura that there was a revered silence throughout. Over six singers - Ramana Kumari, Kanna Rao, Wilson Herald, Laxman Murthy, Sasikala and Jayasri - rendered the songs in turns and in duets.
From the song evoking pathos, Jagame Maya Bratuke Maya Vedalo Saramintenaya, and a comforting Urake Kanniru Nimpa Karanamemamma, to devotional numbers like Deva Deva Dhavalachala Mandira Gangadhara Hara Namo Namo, Siva Shankari Siva Nanda Lahari and classic romantic duets like Neevani Nenani Talachitira, Hai Lo Hailessa Hamsa Kada Na Padava, Hayi Hayigaa Aamani Saage Uoogi Povu Madi Vuyyalagaa, the harmonies seemed countless, and the evening, endless.
For the audience, it was rare treat of semi-classical music. Raagasaptaswaram gives a gold medal every year to an amateur singer dedicated to music. This year the medal, sponsored by Ratna Educational Academy, was awarded to Amalapuram Kanna Rao, who is a 'devotee' of Ghantasala and his music.