Starting with a live interactive musical segment, he introduces the audience to the ancient art of the Mridangam, tracing its origins, evolution, and modern-day relevance across genres — from temple rituals to fusion and film music.Sharing his personal journey from a secure corporate career to pursuing music full-time, Vijay reflects on the challenges, uncertainties, and fulfillment that come with following one’s passion. Through his story, he illustrates how dedication, faith in one’s craft, and the courage to choose “the road less traveled” can redefine success.His talk is a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity, urging young dreamers to listen to their inner rhythm and create their own beat in life. Vijay Natesan is a renowned Carnatic mridangam artist celebrated for his mastery and versatility. Trained under stalwarts like T.S. Nandakumar and maestro T.V. Gopalakrishnan, he has performed globally, sharing stages with legendary musicians and bringing Indian classical percussion to international audiences. A top-graded All India Radio artist, his work is marked by a blend of traditional rigor and innovative rhythms. With performances across festivals, concerts, and collaborations worldwide, he represents the younger generation of artists carrying forward India’s cultural heritage. His dedication to music and artistry reflects discipline, creativity, and the ability to connect deeply with diverse audiences. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx