Swathi Thirunal (1813-1847) is Kerala’s greatest contribution to the world of music, which knows no boundaries or languages. He was a genius who brought music into the realm of modern sensibilities during a time when Kerala was transitioning into the modern era. His inspiration came from modern scientific thought, as evidenced by his establishment of the library, observatory, and modern hospital in Thiruvananthapuram.

Additionally, he made efforts to eradicate irrational customs. Swathi Thirunal composed around 400 Kirtanas while embracing the diverse world of music with an open mind and attempting to reinvent it. Examples of his works include Jathiswarams, Thillanas, Ragamalikas, Navaratri Kirtanas, and Navaratnamalikas.

Another proof of Swathi Thirunal’s modernity is his national outlook towards arts and artists, despite residing in the small town of Travancore 200 years ago. For him, music was a cultural thread that united people. Consequently, his palace was always frequented by people from various regions of India, speaking different languages. Individuals from places like Lahore, Banaras, Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra, and Maharashtra kept Travancore vibrant with their dances and songs. He composed 40 kirtanas in Hindustani. The kirtanas praising Sree Padmanabha and Sree Krishna marked a new approach to the Malayalam language.

This comprehensive website about Swathi Thirunal, a person of unique personality and accomplishments, was initially started in 2003 but was halted due to technical issues. Now, it has been updated to modern standards and is presented to you. Approximately 60% of his kirtanas, along with their meanings in English and Malayalam, are available here. Additionally, you can listen to renditions of his works.

We proudly present this website to you.

Secretary, Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan