Hailed as the Pitamaha (father) of music , he united philosophy, poetry & music in his compositions. He laid great stress on Mayamalavagaula (scale) & systematised the early lessons in music. Born in Purandaragarh near poona to a rich banker, Varadappa Naik, he was initially a miser & without any generous thought. But later, he had a change of mind & was involved in various charitable activities. He was well versed in Sanskrit & music. His compositions are called Devarnamas. They have the essence of bhakthi & melody. His mudra was Purandara.