Who is the father of Carnatic classical music?

The title "Father of Carnatic classical music" is most often attributed to Purandara Dasa, a 16th-century saint, composer, and philosopher. He is revered for systematizing the teaching methodology of Carnatic music, introducing structured lessons like sarali varisai, jantai varisai, alankaras, and geethams that form the foundation for beginner students even today. Purandara Dasa composed thousands of devotional songs in Kannada, many of which are still performed. His approach made learning music accessible and spiritually rooted. Though Carnatic music evolved over centuries with contributions from many, Purandara Dasa’s pedagogical legacy earned him this enduring recognition and respect. read less