Lok Kala Ratna

Shuwehtha Premkumar

Performing Artist

Principal of Sahaana Fine Arts, Seremban Malaysia

About The Musician

Lok Kala Ratna, Ms. Shuwehtha Premkumar, is a name synonymous with passion, dedication, and musical brilliance. Born into a family of musicians in 1998 in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Shuwehtha’s journey started at the tender age of 3 under the nurturing guidance of her guru and mother, Vidushi Mrs. Jayalakshmi Premkumar. Her mother’s unwavering support and mentorship sparked a deep and enduring love for this ancient instrument, laying the foundation for her remarkable artistry.

Shuwehtha’s artistry reflects a profound connection to the veena, an instrument she sees not just as a medium of music but as a means of storytelling and spiritual expression. Inspired by her rich cultural heritage and her mother’s profound musical legacy, Shuwehtha approaches her craft with a blend of tradition and innovation. Each note she plays echoes the devotion and discipline instilled in her from a young age, bringing life to the instrument’s timeless melodies.

Her artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that music transcends boundaries, offering rhythm and harmony that touch the soul. This ethos continues to inspire her journey, as she remains steadfast in her mission to preserve and promote the veena as a revered symbol of cultural and artistic excellence.

Today, Shuwehtha’s journey is a celebration of inspiration, family, and an unrelenting passion for the veena, making her a true embodiment of her title, “Lok Kala Ratna”

2010

First success was being the youngest in Malaysia to complete her Veena Arangetram (veena graduation), at the age of 12 in her hometown, Seremban. Her mother Acharya Ratna Guru Vidushi Jayalakshmi Premkumar was the key person for her to be a successful Vainika as what she is today.

2012

She was awarded the “YOUTH EXCELLENCE AWARD” that was honored by Sivan Fine Arts Chennai, India in her exceptional talent and skills in strumming the veena.

2013

She participated in the Global Council of Performing Arts & Culture organized by ABSS from Pune, India in Singapore and won the Gold Medal. She was the FIRST veena artist to bloom and receive the award as the judges from Pune, India were dazzled by her fingering skills and speed on the veena.

2014

By judging Shuwehtha’s excellence in her performance at plucking the veena, she was conferred the title, “VEENADHARI” by the one and only Veena Chakravarthi Vidwan Shri D. Srinivas, a prominent veena legend artist from Andhra Pradesh, India

2016

Shuwehtha was honored with the prestigious ASTRO VAANAVIL VIRUTHU, presented by Sivan Fine Arts, Chennai in association with ASTRO Vaanavil Malaysia. This recognition was made even more special by the personal encouragement and respect she received from ASTRO’s Director, Mr. Rajamani, a key supporter of her artistic journey.

2017

Shuwehtha was bestowed with the prestigious title “YAAZHISAI NAAYAGI” by the World Tamil Epics Research Association of Malaysia during the Sakthi Bharatanatyam & Carnatic Musical Offering. Celebrated as the Queen and Heroine of Veena, this title stands as a testament to her relentless dedication and unwavering commitment to music.

2023

She was honored with the prestigious international honour with the title “LOK KALA RATNA”, by Raaba Media & Raaba Book of World Records in Chennai. This esteemed accolade reflects her unwavering dedication, exceptional artistry, and her role as a beacon of inspiration for the global music community.

Performances

Alaipayudhey – Find Your Magic

Step into a world where ancient Indian tales meet vibrant orchestral music, where children lead the way in discovering the playful, powerful, and poetic world of Krishna — the blue God with a flute and a heart full of wonder , woven together with the timeless music...

Singapore Traditional Orchestra

An interesting trip to Korea-expanded the ethics and beauty of music in its own form of instrument. Shared the sounds of heritage, innovation and connection with new audience and people around to work, Honored to be performing classical veena with Siong Leng...

Sanatana

The Eternal God ~
An Inspiring Fusion of International & Local Artists —
A Magnificent Orchestra Bench Accompanied by Graceful Dancers
Singapore and Malaysia combination.

Kala Yuga Puraskar

An esteemed award ceremony organized by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, honoring distinguished performers alongside prominent global artists, celebrating the grandeur of Indian art forms.

Cultural Festival (LACF)

The Living Arts Cultural Festival showcases a rich tapestry of diverse arts and music, highlighting the timeless beauty of the veena in a celebration of culture and creativity.

Ananda Lahari

An enchanting ensemble of Carnatic Veena recital and soulful bhajans, accompanied by vibrant percussion,
with Shuwehtha captivating on the Veena.

Sangam

A beautiful confluence of music and tradition, showcasing unity, passion, and the timeless elegance of classical art.

The Malaysian Wave

A captivating performance where Shuwehtha’s veena artistry celebrates Malaysia’s cultural heritage with rhythm and grace.

Swaranjali

A soulful musical offering, blending devotion and harmony, where every note becomes a tribute to tradition and the divine.

Brands Worked With

Message to The Next Generation…

Music is more than notes; it’s a way to tell stories and touch hearts. Let your passion guide you, but remember, it takes discipline and patience to grow. Learn from a mentor who inspires not just your skills but your soul.

Embrace the challenges—they’re what make you stronger. Experiment, be creative, and explore new sounds, but always stay true to yourself. Your unique voice matters, even when the world feels overwhelming.

Above all, share your music with humility and gratitude. Whether on big stages or small gatherings, your music can inspire and heal. Believe in yourself, trust the process, and let your passion lead the way.