Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar (1st September, 1896 - 16th October, 1974) , A great vidwan, who was also known for his affability and ready wit. He is credited with bringing to the fore a number of juniors.

He was born to Anantha Bhagavatar and Parvati Ammal in Chembai on 1st September, 1896. His father was a violinist and brother Subramanyam was a vocalist.

His gurus were his father and Kaliakudi Natesa Sastrigal and the well known artists like TV Gopalakrishnan and KJ Yesudas were the Sishyas (students) of Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar.

He bagged Gayana gandharva in 1940, Sangita Samrat in 1946, Sangita Kalanidhi in 1951, by the Music Academy, Madras, Sangita Natak Academy award in 1958.