Carnatic Singer-Sisters Hit Back at Music Academy Chief, ‘All-Brahmin Body’ Dig
In an unfolding saga that has quickly become the center of attention in the world of Carnatic music, renowned musician sisters, Ranjani and Gayatri, have taken a firm stand against the president of the Music Academy, N Murali, sparking a heated debate on inclusivity and representation within the storied institution. The issue at hand is multifaceted, involving criticisms of the academy’s decision-making processes, allegations of maintaining a caste-exclusive environment, and the fallout from honoring artist T.M. Krishna with the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi Award.
The Core of the Controversy
The crux of the controversy traces back to when Ranjani and Gayatri publicly announced their decision to withdraw from the Music Academy’s December conference. This decision was directly linked to the participation of T.M. Krishna, a vocalist known for his critical views on traditional Carnatic music practices and his outspoken stance against casteism. The sisters voiced their discontent through a statement on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing their unwillingness to be associated with what they perceive as a platform that does not align with their values.
The response from N Murali, the president of the Music Academy, was swift but did little to quell the burgeoning unrest. Labeling the musician sisters’ withdrawal as “an unwarranted and slanderous assertion,” Murali’s defense of the Academy’s decision to honor Krishna inadvertently fueled the fire, prompting a more detailed rebuttal from Ranjani and Gayatri.
Accusations of Immorality and Dishonesty
In a passionate response, Ranjani and Gayatri accused Murali of immoral and dishonest conduct. They argued that their initial withdrawal was not a call to action against the awarding of T.M. Krishna but a personal decision to distance themselves from a narrative they could not support. Furthermore, they allege that Murali’s statement seemed to defend Krishna more than it did the academy, hinting at ulterior motives influenced by other notable figures like N Ram, director of The Hindu Publishing Group.
A Call for Transformation
At the heart of Ranjani and Gayatri’s argument is a plea for transformation within the Music Academy. The sisters envision an institution that welcomes and celebrates diversity, one where performers from underprivileged communities and religious minorities can find a voice and an audience. They challenge the current leadership, pointing out the lack of representation and inclusivity within its executive committee. Their bold statement implies that the change they wish to see within the Carnatic music community should start at the top—with those who have held power for decades taking decisive action towards inclusivity.
Ranjani and Gayatri’s statement is a rallying cry for a broader movement within the world of Carnatic music. They seek not just to address the specifics of this incident but to ignite a conversation about representation, casteism, and the future of one of India’s most cherished musical traditions. As this debate continues to unfold, it is clear that the sisters’ voices have become a beacon for those advocating for change, challenging longstanding norms, and pushing for an art form that welcomes all who wish to partake in its beauty.
The controversy surrounding the Sangita Kalanidhi Award and the Music Academy has unveiled deep-rooted issues within the Carnatic music community. As more voices join the conversation, the potential for transformative change grows, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative Carnatic music tradition.
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Priyanka 
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