A milestone in the documentation and promotion of Indian classical arts was achieved in October 1983, when Sruti, the first known English-language periodical focused on Carnatic music and classical dance, was launched in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu.
Founded by publisher P.N. Sundaresan and edited by N. Pattabhiraman, Sruti quickly gained popularity, drawing 30,000 readers in its very first year—a remarkable feat that underscored the demand for quality English content on Indian classical traditions.
The magazine filled a crucial gap in arts journalism by providing in-depth features, artist profiles, critical reviews, and historical insights, all presented in English to cater to a broader and more diverse readership. Its focus on Carnatic music and dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Odissi established Sruti as a vital voice in the classical arts community.
Over the decades, Sruti has remained an authoritative platform for scholars, performers, and enthusiasts, continuing its mission to preserve, promote, and critically engage with India’s performing arts heritage.
