About this Event
Join us for a special free live performance in the Barbican foyer, celebrating the richness of South Indian classical music. Brothers Harrisan and Anushan Mohanarajah, the London-based duo known as 2Flutes, take to the stage on Carnatic flute, joined by Ram Sivasubramaniam on mridangam. Together they weave soaring, voice-like melodies around driving rhythmic patterns, in a conversation of tradition, emotion and artistry that promises to leave you inspired.
About the artists
Harrisan and Anushan Mohanarajah are a carnatic flute duo from London, celebrated for bringing the sound of the Indian bamboo flute to audiences well beyond the concert hall. They have led Carnatic-inspired performances of ragas and harmonies at events across the capital, and are admired for their ability to move between classical tradition and contemporary music with ease. Playing as a pair, their flutes echo, answer and entwine, bringing a rare closeness to the Carnatic duet.
Ram Sivasubramaniam (Ram Siva) is a mridangam player who regularly performs alongside his brother Keeran in London's Carnatic scene. On the mridangam, he provides the rhythmic heartbeat of the performance, responding to the flutes in real time.
About the music
Carnatic music is the classical tradition of South India, passed down through generations in a deep bond between teacher and student. It is built on ragam, a melodic framework tied to particular moods, and talam, the rhythmic cycle that underpins it. Performances blend carefully composed pieces with spontaneous improvisation, building from reflective openings to moments of thrilling energy.
The Carnatic flute, or venu, is a simple length of bamboo, yet it is one of the most expressive voices in the tradition, known for its warm, breathy tone and fluid, singing phrases. The mridangam is a double-headed drum, often called the "king of percussion" in Carnatic music. Its resonant bass and crisp, intricate patterns drive the music and respond to every melodic turn.
This event is open to all and perfect for music lovers of every background, whether you're new to Indian classical music or a devoted listener. This free foyer event is part of our Darbar Festival 2026.
See all Darbar Festival events here: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/series/darbar-festival-2026
Please note: RSVP does not guarantee a seat. It simply helps us manage attendee numbers. We encourage all interested in attending to RSVP before the event. Seating is strictly first come, first served, so please arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy an unforgettable musical experience.
Event venue & nearby stays
Barbican Centre Foyer, Silk Street, London, United Kingdom
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