Chinmayi Sripada Stands With T.M. Krishna Amidst Carnatic Music Controversy
In recent developments that have stirred the Carnatic music scene, popular vocalist Thodur Madabusi Krishna, better known as T.M. Krishna, finds himself at the center of a contentious debate following the announcement of his selection for this year’s prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award by the Madras Music Academy. The decision has sparked a flurry of reactions, leading to an intense discussion about casteism in Carnatic music—a topic Krishna has been vocally addressing for years. Amidst the backlash, playback singer Chinmayi Sripada has come forward in support of Krishna, highlighting his efforts to dismantle casteism in Carnatic music.
A Voice for Change
Chinmayi Sripada, in an interview with The Wire, discussed the backlash T.M. Krishna has been facing from certain sectors of the Carnatic music community. According to Sripada, the opposition stems from Krishna’s outspoken criticism of the casteism prevalent within Carnatic music, a classical music form traditionally dominated by the Brahmin community. Sripada pointed out that the resistance against Krishna is not about his music but his challenge to the status quo and his call for inclusivity.
“They are just mixing up their personal problems and their personal dislike for the gentleman because he is asking them to dismantle the general casteism that is associated with Carnatic music,” Sripada explained. She also noted that historically, Carnatic music was not exclusive to the Brahmin community, accusing them of “gatekeeping” the art form.
Shining a Light on Inequality
Sripada emphasized Krishna’s efforts to raise awareness about the systemic barriers that musicians from non-Brahmin and marginalized communities face, including the sub-human treatment of accompanying artists. Krishna’s advocacies revolve around making Carnatic music more accessible and inviting to practitioners and enthusiasts regardless of their caste or social background. This stance, according to Sripada, has been met with resistance by those who wish to maintain the exclusivity of Carnatic music.
More Than Music
Beyond the realms of music, Krishna’s activism has also highlighted issues such as the MeToo movement within the Indian music industry. Sripada criticized the selective silence of many Carnatic musicians on these matters, pointing out the hypocrisy of those now criticizing Krishna. Their silence on allegations of sexual misconduct juxtaposed with their vocal opposition to Krishna’s selection for the Sangita Kalanidhi award reveals a conflicting stance on matters affecting the community.
A Broader Discussion
The controversy over T.M. Krishna’s award selection has opened up a broader discussion on the role of caste in Indian arts and the need for inclusivity and reform. Voices like Chinmayi Sripada’s play a crucial role in supporting individuals like Krishna, who fight for a more equitable and inclusive Carnatic music tradition. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that the issue at hand transcends individual awards, touching on deeper societal challenges and the need for systemic change.
With Sripada’s endorsement, Krishna continues to incite conversations that could lead to transformative changes in Carnatic music and beyond. The controversy surrounding his Sangita Kalanidhi award has brought to the forefront the urgent need to address and dismantle caste-based discrimination in Indian classical music, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse artistic community.
As the debate rages on, the music community and its wider audience are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about tradition, inclusion, and the power dynamics that have shaped the world of Carnatic music for centuries. This moment, perhaps, offers an opportunity for reflection and, hopefully, progress towards a future where art transcends boundaries, and recognition is based purely on talent and contribution rather than caste or community.
also read:The Resonance of Casteism in Carnatic Music: TM Krishna’s Stand Against Tradition
Divya 
Mehek