One of the B. V. Brothers, musician and guru B. V. Raman passed away in Chennai on Nov. 27. He was 85. His twin brother B. V. Lakshmanan passed away in 1999.

The brothers who started their training in music at the age of 17, were trained by Tiger Varadachariar in Annamalai University. When Varadachariar came to teach in Kalakshetra, Chennai, the brothers moved with him and were under his training. B. V. Lakshmanan left for Delhi to teach at Karnataka Sangeeta Sabha there, Raman continued in Chennai. When the brother came together after 12 years, the duo started giving major concert performances. The brothers are known for their rich repertoire and rare kritis. The brothers were passionate teachers of music and after the death of B. V. Lakshmanan, Raman confined himself to teaching.

The duo were specialists in thematic concerts. B. V. Raman was awarded Sangita Kala Acharya by the Music Academy last year.