Jayachandra Rao

Jayachandra Rao: Biography and Career Highlights

Jayachandra Rao, often credited as K.U. Jayachandra Rao, is an acclaimed Indian classical Carnatic percussionist and Mridangam maestro. He hails from a family rich in musical tradition—his father, Prof. K. Raghavendra Rao, is a distinguished flautist, and Jayachandra himself began his musical journey at the age of five, learning Mridangam from Vidwan Trichur E.P. Narayan Pisharady. He later received advanced training from Palakkad T.R. Rajamani, enhancing his skills in the genre.

Musical Style and Achievements

• Renowned for his melodious sound, creative artistry, and "Gayaki style" (singing style) of Mridangam playing.


• Known for versatility across Carnatic, jazz, world music, experimental, and film recordings, regularly collaborating with both Indian and international artists, including Dillon Fowler and Peter Stacey.


• One of very few left-handed Mridangam players, making his technique a rarity in percussion circles.


• Has directed exclusive percussion ensembles and solos, focusing on blending rhythms of various percussion instruments and fostering musical innovation.


• Praised by senior musicians for his anticipation of freestyle improvisation (“manodharma”) and clarity of stroke.

Awards and Recognition

• Honored as Asthana Vidwan (Privileged Musician) of the respected Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt.


• Winner of the Puttachar Memorial Award in Bangalore and Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham Aasthana Vidwan Award.


• Has received accolades for his significant contributions to world music and classical percussion, with praise from critics and connoisseurs worldwide.

International Tours and Performances

• Jayachandra Rao has performed at numerous international music festivals across more than 20 countries.


• The only Carnatic percussionist to perform with the National Orchestra of BBC Wales.


• Regularly provides percussion support for major dance productions and magnum opus events, such as the India Dance in Wales (UK).


• His concerts and workshops attract students and connoisseurs from North America, Europe, Australia, UAE, and India.

Mentorship and Education

• Has taught Mridangam and percussion for over 25 years, training students worldwide and contributing to the growth of Indian rhythm traditions.


• Offers courses suitable for all skill levels, fostering a new generation of percussionists.

Jayachandra Rao continues to enrich global musical landscapes through masterful performances, creative collaborations, and dedicated teaching. His career bridges traditions and innovations, making him one of the foremost rhythmic artists in Carnatic and world music today.