Semmangudi's passing away really came as a shock. Medically, his health seemed all right but it was old age that killed him. Semmangudi was 97.

He was the last roman of that calibre of musicians in Carnatic music. He belonged to the galaxy of stars of Carnatic music.

Also Read Semmangudi, Carnatic music doyen, dead

Semmangudi ruled the roost for the last 4-5 decades. His Kutcheri (concert) craft was a treat to watch for the audience and even other professional musicians.

His clean admirable presentation at the Kutcheri was something we all as musicians could learn and pick up from. He never resorted to any gimmicks to keep his audience's attention.

Till the last two to three years he was still performing on the demands of people. But then he stopped coming out as much as he used to.

With the passing away of Semmangudi, a big banyan tree has been uprooted.

Today, none of Semmangudi's peers are alive. He was the last doyen of Carnatic music.

G S Mani is a noted Carnatic music vocalist. He spoke to Priya Ganapati.