Dissonance and Harmony: The Carnatic Music Controversy and TM Krishna’s Crusade Against Casteism
The world of Carnatic music, usually resonating with the harmonious interplay of raga and tala, lately echoes the discord of a heated controversy involving casteism, alleged biases, and the bold stance taken by eminent musician TM Krishna. This complex narrative involves not just musical notes, but also the social norms and practices that underlie the traditional art form.
The Controversy Unfolds
Carnatic vocalists Ranjani and Gayatri recently expressed their discontent with the Music Academy, Chennai, leading to their withdrawal from an upcoming conference. Their action was in response to the Academy’s decision to honor the veteran musician TM Krishna with the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award. Their withdrawal and subsequent statements brought to light the deeper issues of casteism and exclusivity in the Carnatic music sphere. The sisters criticized the Academy and implied that the award could be seen as an endorsement of TM Krishna’s controversial views on Carnatic music and its culture.
Their public statement on social media sparked a significant debate, accusing the Academy’s president, N Murali, of being “immoral and dishonest” and suggesting changes in the Academy’s leadership for a more inclusive approach. This controversy has not only divided opinions among artists but also drawn the attention of music enthusiasts and the general public towards the underlying issues of caste and discrimination within the traditional art form.
TM Krishna: A Voice Against Casteism
TM Krishna, a prominent figure in the Carnatic music arena, has been at the forefront of advocating for inclusivity and challenging the caste-based gatekeeping within the Carnatic music community. Krishna’s efforts are dedicated to dismantling the barriers that restrict the art form to a certain community, primarily the Brahmins. His outspoken views have rallied both support and criticism, making him a polarizing figure in the classical music world.
Indian playback singer Chinmayi Sripada, in her backing of Krishna, emphasized his commitment to addressing and rectifying the deep-seated casteism in Carnatic music. Krishna’s endeavors, according to Sripada, are not merely about challenging the status quo but paving the way for a more democratic and open Carnatic music environment where talent, regardless of caste or background, is recognized and nurtured.
The Battle Against Tradition and Gatekeeping
The Carnatic music community has, for years, been dominated by the Brahmin caste, with traditional gurus often passing down their knowledge within their communities. This practice has inadvertently sidelined talented musicians and vocalists from other castes, limiting their opportunities and recognition in the classical music world. TM Krishna’s battle against these practices is seen as a beacon of hope for many aspiring musicians who have faced discrimination and marginalization.
However, this stance has not been without its challenges. The backlash against Krishna and his supporters from traditionalist quarters highlights the struggle between maintaining tradition and embracing change within Carnatic music. The recent controversy around the Sangita Kalanidhi award is a testament to this ongoing struggle, raising important questions about inclusivity, meritocracy, and the future of Carnatic music.
The conversation initiated by Krishna and propelled by incidents like the withdrawal of Ranjani and Gayatri from the Music Academy conference is essential. It forces the Carnatic music community to introspect and potentially reevaluate the principles on which it operates. While the road to change is fraught with resistance, the discourse surrounding these events is a critical step towards a more inclusive and equitable Carnatic music world.
In the end, the hope remains that Carnatic music, an art form revered for its divine connection and spiritual depth, can transcend the earthly shackles of caste and discrimination to truly be a universal language of expression and unity.
Deepika 
Divya