MS Viswanathan’s harmonium is weeping uncontrollably for it misses the touch of its master’s magical fingers, which gave the world some of the most wonderful melodies. Popularly known as Mellisai Mannar or MSV, the artiste was always seen wearing the sacred-ash (vibhuti), sandalwood paste (chandanam) and a big red vermillion dot (kumkumam) on his forehead. He was ahead of his times and his music transcended genres and blended new trends.
I met the legend at a music competition. The director of the show requested him to compose a few lines in praise of the show, and MSV asked, “Meter ku matter aa, illa matter ku meter aa (Tune for the lyrics or lyrics for the tune)IJ” To me, the initials ‘MSV’ means Mellifluous Soul-stirring Virtuoso.