Carnatic Musicians Ranjani, Gayatri Boycott Music Academy Conference for Awarding TM Krishna

Several famous Indian classical musicians have decided not to attend the Music Academy’s Conference 2024. They’re protesting against Carnatic singer TM Krishna being given the “Sangita Kalanidhi” title for 2024 and his role as the conference’s president. Many Carnatic musicians are upset because Krishna has criticized the Sangh Parivar and the BJP government. 

They believe honouring Krishna damages the Carnatic music community and its traditional practitioners. Renowned singers Ranjani and Gayatri were the first to announce they’re not participating. They said it would be morally wrong to attend a conference led by Krishna.

Ranjani and Gayatri Withdraw from the Music Academy Conference

Ranjani and Gayatri, well-known classical singers, have decided not to participate in the Music Academy’s Conference 2024. They shared their decision on the social media platform X, expressing concerns about TM Krishna’s role as the conference president. They believe that Krishna has caused significant harm to the Carnatic music world by disrespecting its traditions and revered figures like Tyagaraja and MS Subbulakshmi.

Ranjani and Gayatri highlighted their objection to Krishna’s support for EVR, who they claim advocated for violence against Brahmins and used derogatory language against women in the community. They emphasized the importance of addressing these issues and standing against behaviours that undermine the integrity of Carnatic music.

“We believe in respecting art, artists, composers, music lovers, institutions, our heritage, and culture. Attending this year’s conference would go against our moral values, as it would mean disregarding these principles.”

Carnatic Musician Chitravina Ravikiran Returns Sangita Kalanidhi Award in Protest

Chitravina Ravikiran, another Carnatic musician, took a bold stance by returning his Sangita Kalanidhi Award to the academy as a protest. On Twitter, he explained his decision, stating that he believes in upholding principles that are larger than any individual. Despite returning the award, he expressed gratitude to the organization for its support throughout his career from childhood.

Zoho CEO Criticizes TM Krishna’s Political Stance

Sridhar Vembu, the founder and CEO of Zoho, has openly criticized TM Krishna, accusing him of aligning with groups aiming to destabilize the nation and its cultural values.

 Vembu expressed admiration for Krishna’s musical talent but denounced his “woke politics” as nauseating. He suggested that Krishna could promote reform within Hindu society by following the example of Swami Vivekananda instead of associating with forces intent on undermining Dharma and the unity of the nation. Dushyanth Sridhar, Vishakha Hari, Tiruchur Brothers, and Vishakha Hari are some of the singers who have decided not to participate in the upcoming conference.

Chinmayi Questions Carnatic Musicians’ Outrage

Singer Chinmayi has raised concerns about the selective outrage of Carnatic musicians regarding TM Krishna. In her tweets, she questioned why these musicians remained silent during the #MeToo movement, particularly when popular singers like Chitravina Ravikiran faced allegations of sexual harassment. Chinmayi also challenged the moral authority of singers Ranjani and Gayatri. She emphasized that, in her experience, the film industry is a safer environment compared to the Carnatic music industry.

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