1.Flute Instrument
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In Carnatic music the flute is called the “venu” (வேணு) or sometimes “pullanguzhal” in Tamil.
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It’s a side-blown bamboo flute with 8 finger holes (earlier 7) and no keys, unlike the Western flute.
2. Structure & Features
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Made from a single piece of bamboo.
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Produces a soft, mellow, and sweet tone, ideal for expressing gamakas (ornamentations) unique to Carnatic music.
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The additional 8th hole (introduced by T.R. Mahalingam) gives more flexibility in pitch and gamakas.
3. Playing Style
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Uses cross-fingering and controlled breath to produce microtones and slides (gamakas).
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Notes correspond to swaras (sa, ri, ga, ma, pa, da, ni).
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Because of its open holes, it can closely mimic the human voice, which is why it’s so prized in Carnatic concerts.
4. Famous Carnatic Flutists
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T.R. Mahalingam (Mali) – revolutionized Carnatic flute playing; introduced the 8-hole flute.
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N. Ramani – student of Mali; developed a distinct bani (style).
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Sikkil Sisters (Kunjumani & Neela) – renowned female flautists.
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Shashank Subramanyam – known for speed, range, and innovation.
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Nagai Muralidharan, Sikkil Gurucharan (next gen artists).
5. Role in Concerts
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Can be a solo instrument or part of an ensemble (accompaniment).
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Commonly used in kutcheris (concerts) and aradhanas (devotional festivals).
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Popular for rendering ragas, kritis, varnams, thillanas etc.
