Classical Vocalist TM Krishna Faces Heat From Carnatic Musicians After Receiving Honour From Madras Music Academy

Several top Carnatic musicians in Tamil Nadu are withdrawing from the annual conference of the Madras Music Academy in December following the awarding of the prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi award to classical vocalist TM Krishna. The Sangita Kalanidhi award, often likened to an Oscar in the field, was presented to the 48-year-old artist despite criticism from fellow musicians who accused him of promoting the views of Periyar, who they claim advocated for the genocide of Brahmins, denigrated women from the community, and normalized vulgar language in social discourse.

However, DMK leader Kanimozhi has expressed support for Krishna, condemning the backlash against him for his social beliefs and association with Periyar. Among the protesting musicians are Ranjani and Gayathri, who have announced their refusal to perform at the December 25 event or participate in the academy’s conference from December 1 to January 1.

They stated their decision was prompted by Krishna’s presence as the conference’s presiding figure, asserting that they cannot compromise their values by associating with him. Similarly, Harikatha exponent Dushyanth Sridhar declared his intention not to perform on January 1, 2025, due to ideological differences with Krishna, expressing discomfort with the latter’s public statements on various subjects.

The ‘Trichur Brothers,’ Srikrishna Mohan and Ramkumar Mohan, echoed similar sentiments, opting out of the Annual Conference 2024 of the Music Academy, Madras, citing Krishna’s involvement. Notably, musician and composer Chitravina Ravikiran also expressed dissatisfaction with Krishna’s felicitation, announcing his decision to return the Sangitha Kalanidhi award from the academy.

Krishna has been a vocal critic of the privileged status enjoyed by many Carnatic musicians, advocating for the transcendence of caste barriers in art. His efforts to democratize the arts have garnered both praise and criticism. The Madras Music Academy, in a press release, acknowledged Krishna’s efforts in expanding the listener base of Carnatic music and promoting its exploratory nature.