Hari Devanath

Sri Hari Devanath is a disciple of Sangeetha Kalanidhi Guru Sri Neyveli Santhanagopalan. Hari feels blessed to continue learning from Guru Neyveli Santhanagopalan, with whom he enjoys a special relationship as a lifelong disciple, ardent fan, and protege. The traditional, rich, and bhaavaa-filled paaTaantharam, a hallmark of the Neyveli bANi, is a constant source of inspiration for Hari. As a performing artist, Hari is a regular at various music festivals across the US and online and enjoys the collaboration of support of phenomenal contemporary Vidwans and Vidushis.

As the founder of Sri Paduka Academy, Hari has nurtured the growth of several young musicians, many of whom are performing artists and teachers in the US and India. As an encouraging and supportive teacher, he stimulates young minds to appreciate the nuances and the rich heritage that has revived learning Carnatic music today. In 2025, Hari received the prestigious Prof. T.R. Subrahmanyam Award from Cleveland Aradhana for The Best Teacher in North America.

Hari is a recognized contributor to the Bay Area Carnatic Music community for his Seva through education and support in promoting classical Indian arts. With the close association of several Indian and American musicians and event organizers, Hari works to strengthen the critical role that learning and appreciating traditional arts play in individuals and communities. Over the past 2 decades of this tireless work, Hari has received many awards for his outreach and Seva, including the Sangeetha Seva Puraskar award by Kalalaya, and Parampara Rakshak by VVS Foundation. Today, Hari remains an active volunteer in the Indian arts community, especially in the Bay Area.