Vazhapally R Krishnakumar

Vazhappally R. Krishnakumar is a distinguished Carnatic ghatam artist based in Tripunithura, Kerala. He was initiated into ghatam and mridangam at the early age of seven by his first guru, Vazhappally Chellappan Master. He later received advanced training from Guru Cherthala R. Jayadev and Guru Dr. Suresh Vaidyanathan, who groomed him in the nuances of ghatam artistry. An A-grade artist of All India Radio, Trivandrum, Krishnakumar began his concert career at age thirteen and has since become a prominent figure in the international Carnatic music circuit. Known for his distinct style of ghatam playing, he has accompanied many eminent musicians and is a favorite among front-ranking lead artists. He is recognized for both traditional accompaniment and contemporary group and thematic presentations.