Row in Madras Music Academy Over Award to TM Krishna: Carnatic Singers Withdraw From 2024 Conference
In an unexpected twist in the classical music world, the Madras Music Academy’s decision to honor T.M. Krishna, a renowned Carnatic musician, with the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award has sparked a fierce debate and led to significant fallout. Prominent Carnatic vocalists Ranjani and Gayatri, along with Harikatha exponent Dushyanth Sridhar, have withdrawn from the Music Academy’s 2024 conference, citing concerns over Krishna’s ideologies and his impact on the traditional Carnatic music scene.
The Crux of the Controversy
The objections to TM Krishna’s recognition stem from his outspoken views and activism that challenge the conventional norms of the Carnatic music fraternity. Critics, including the musicians who have opted out of the Music Academy’s conference, accuse Krishna of causing “immense damage to the Carnatic music world” by “willfully and happily” stomping over the sentiments of many within the community.
Moreover, Krishna’s glorification of E.V. Ramasamy ‘Periyar’, a controversial social activist known for his radical views on caste and religion, has further inflamed tensions. His critics argue that overlooking Krishna’s political and social stances, perceived by some as divisive, is dangerous and undermines the traditional values of Carnatic music.
In Carnatic music’s rarefied world, a strange battle unfolding. Miffed that Music Academy honoured TMKrishna with the Sangeetha Kalanidhi title, sisters Ranjani-Gayatri have pulled out of Academy’s 2024 season. Among their complaints: he praises Periyar.
— Nirupama Subramanian (@tallstories) March 20, 2024
Reactions Across the Board
While the controversy has led to a notable split within the music community, it has also set social media abuzz, with supporters from both sides voicing their opinions.
Some, like politician Kanimozhi, argue that the backlash against Krishna is unwarranted and rooted in a misunderstanding of Periyar’s ideas and Krishna’s intentions.
.@tmkrishna being recognised as Sangita Kalanidhi by the Music Academy has ruffled the feathers of parts of music fraternity. The hate he is receiving for his social beliefs or his engagement with Periyar is uncalled for.
— Kanimozhi (கனிமொழி) (@KanimozhiDMK) April 4, 2023
.@tmkrishna being recognised as Sangita Kalanidhi by the Music Academy has ruffled the feathers of parts of music fraternity.
The hate he is receiving for his social beliefs or his engagement with Periyar is uncalled for.
A basic reading of Periyar's ideas shows us that he is…
— Kanimozhi (கனிமொழி) (@KanimozhiDMK) March 21, 2024
On the flip side, critics argue that Krishna’s progressive politics and reformative stance towards Carnatic music have alienated traditionalists and, in doing so, polarized the community.
The Academy’s Stance
The Music Academy, amidst this tumult, stands firm in its decision. The institution, in response to the protests, has emphasized its belief in the integrity and achievements of T.M. Krishna. They see the award not just as recognition of musical talent but also as an acknowledgment of a musician’s courage to question and redefine the normative boundaries of classical music in India.
A Community Divided
The backlash against TM Krishna and the ensuing withdrawal of several musicians from the Music Academy’s conference reflects broader tensions within the Carnatic music community. These tensions revolve around questions of tradition, inclusivity, and the role of music as a vehicle for social reform.
As the debate rages on, it’s clear that this controversy extends far beyond a mere award. It touches on deeper issues within the Carnatic music world and the Indian cultural scene at large, challenging practitioners, aficionados, and critics alike to reflect on the evolving identity of this ancient art form in the modern age.
As the music community grapples with these issues, the outcome of this controversy could well define the trajectory of Carnatic music in the years to come.