Hundreds of people came together to celebrate the life of one of the most influential composers of Indian classical music.

The London Thyagaraja Aradhanai Festival took place at Harrow High School, in Gayton Road, on Saturday, with 280 children from schools across north London performing the music of Thyagaraja Swami, who died in 1847.

Organised by the London Thyagaraja Aradhana Committee, it is the first of its kind in London, and organisers hope to turn it into an annual event.

Committee president Sri Tharmendiran said: “The aim of the day is to spread his message and follow the tradition, and carry on that spirit.

“It’s about paying tribute to him and receiving blessing.

“All the people who came really understand music. The quality of the programme is excellent, I have been very impressed. We are hoping to have it every year.”