| Ganesh and Kumaresh | |
| Landscape: | yes |
| Background: | group_or_band |
| Alias: | Violin Brothers / Fiddling Monks |
| Genre: | Carnatic music |
| Years Active: | 1972 - Present |
| Website: | www.ganeshkumaresh.org |
Ganesh and Kumaresh are an Indian duo of violinists who are a part of the Carnatic music (South India) fraternity.[1] [2] The brothers are known as modern contemporary artists in "Sastriya Sangitam". They were awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2018 for Carnatic Instrumental Music (Violin).[3] Kumaresh's wife, Jayanthi Kumaresh, is a noted Veena player.
Ganesh and Kumaresh were born in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in 1964 and 1967, respectively, where their father Sri T.S. Rajagopalan, was employed in Life Insurance Corporation of India. Their musical training started at home at the early ages of 3 and 2, respectively, under their father, who also taught other students in the neighborhood.[4]
Ganesh and Kumaresh not only perform but also compose music for films and dance productions. They have contributed music to movies such as Dance Like a Man and Chandrikai. Their musical style, Raga Pravaham, explores the intricacies of Indian ragas and talas.
They have performed at several global festivals in countries and regions including India, the USA, Canada, Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Maldives, and Australia.
They also appeared in Doordarshan Bharati's musical advertisement for national unity along with veterans in music, sports and various fields (as the national representatives of their respective field).
Ganesh Rajagopalan is currently an active member of Shakti, which won the Best Global Music Album award at the Grammys 2024 for their comeback album 'This Moment'.