Mridangam maestro Guruvayur Dorai dies at 92

Guruvayur Dorai, a leading mridangam player in Indian classical music, has died at 92 following age-related complications.

He performed with generations of musicians, including singer M.S. Subbulakshmi, whom he accompanied regularly for many years.

Dorai became interested in rhythm as a child and made his concert debut at eight, accompanying singer Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar.

He developed a distinctive playing style shaped by his own technique and lessons from mridangam master Palani Subramania Pillai.

Although polio had affected him physically, he built a long career and trained many students.

He received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Kalaimamani award and the Padma Shri.

He is survived by his wife and daughter.