Ilaiyaraaja's 50-Year Music Legacy Meets Akshaya Patra 25 Years

In a historic convergence of service, music, and creative excellence, The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s 25-year Silver Jubilee, Ilaiyaraaja’s 50 years of an extraordinary musical journey, and Mercuri Productions’ 100th landmark event come together in a unified celebration that blends culture with national purpose. This momentous collaboration culminates in “Ilaiyaraaja 50: A Legendary Musical Journey”, to be held on January 10^th, 2026 at NICE Grounds, Madavara, Bengaluru, amplifying Music for Meals, an Akshaya Patra initiative that channels the power of music towards nourishing young minds across India.

As Akshaya Patra enters its Silver Jubilee year, the organisation reflects on a journey that has enabled 2.33 million children to receive nutritious meals every school day across 23,978 government and government-aided schools, strengthening education outcomes as a key implementing partner of the PM POSHAN programme.

Ilaiyaraaja’s five-decade musical journey has shaped generations, transcending language, geography, and genre. In parallel, Akshaya Patra’s 25-year mission has demonstrated how nutrition can transform learning, dignity, and opportunity for millions of children. Together, this collaboration emphasises a powerful truth: when cultural leadership aligns with national purpose, enduring impact follows.

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Addressing the Press Conference, Ilaiyaraaja, Musical Maestro & Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha said, “Music has given me everything in these 50 years, and today it is giving me a chance to give something back to children.​ As Akshaya Patra completes 25 years of service, ‘Music for Meals’ brings our journeys together with a shared purpose of nourishing young minds.​ If a concert can help fill an empty stomach and keep a child in school, then every raga and every rhythm gains a deeper meaning.​ Akshaya Patra’s work shows how a simple plate of food can change the direction of a young life, and I am humbled to stand with them in this journey”

Chanchalapathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice-Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said “Akshaya Patra began 25 years ago with a simple yet powerful vision to ensure that no child is denied education because of hunger. What started as a humble initiative has today grown into a nationwide movement with 78 kitchens across 16 states, serving nutritious mid-day meals to over 23.5 lakh children every single day. This journey has been made possible through the collective efforts of the government, committed partners, and conscientious citizens who believe in sharing and social responsibility. As we celebrate 25 years of serving the children, this unique confluence of music and meals, through the dedication of Ilaiyaraaja, beautifully reflects our Srila Prabhupada’s vision of compassion in action, where talent, resources, and purpose come together to nourish both hearts and futures.”

More than a concert, the evening represents a collective milestone,50 years of musical legacy, 25 years of service, and 100 productions of creative excellence coming together in a shared commitment to nation-building. Audiences can expect an unforgettable two-hour symphonic experience, celebrating music that has shaped India, while contributing meaningfully to nurturing the minds that will shape its future.