T M Krishna Receives Prestigious Sangita Kalanidhi Award

The world of Carnatic music is celebrating as distinguished musician T M Krishna has been honored with the Sangita Kalanidhi award for the year 2024. This prestigious accolade is equivalent to an Oscar in the realm of Carnatic music and is bestowed by the esteemed Music Academy in Chennai.

A Maestro’s Journey

At 48, Thodur Madabusi Krishna has achieved a formidable reputation not just for his exhilarating performances but also for his impactful voice in social activism. Coming from a notable lineage, being the grandnephew of the illustrious T T Krishnamachari, Krishna's musical prowess was honed by his early mentors, Bhagavatula Seetharama Sarma and Chengalpet Ranganathan, themselves honored with the Sangita Kala Acharya award by the Music Academy. Later, the legendary Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer recognized Krishna's potential, taking him under his wing for further guidance.

Challenging Traditions

Known for his iconoclastic approach, Krishna challenges traditional norms within the structure of Carnatic music. From the seating arrangements of artistes to the roles and leads taken by accompanying musicians, and his bold choices of ragas, Krishna’s daring attitude is evident. Despite potentially polarizing decisions in a tradition-loving community, his music, infused with profound bhava—emotion or mood—continues to enthrall audiences far and wide.

A Voice for Change

Offstage, Krishna uses his platform to champion socio-political reforms, leveraging music as an instrument for change. His pronouncements on caste and politics have sparked debate, earning him both acclaim and controversy. His commitment to social justice is underscored by his receipt of the Ramon Magsaysay award.

Accolades for Peers

The Music Academy also recognizes others for their contributions to music. Mridangam artist and teacher, Prof Parassala Ravi, and musician Geetha Raja are recipients of the Sangita Kala Acharya award. Vocal duo Thiruvayyaru Brothers and violinist H K Narasimhamurthy are honored with the ‘TTK Award’. Dr Margaret Bastin receives the ‘musicologist award’ for her academic contributions.

Dance Excellence Acknowledged

Dr Neena Prasad, known for her mastery in various classical dances, is bestowed with the Nritya Kalanidhi award. Dr Prasad is the founder of the Bharathanjali Academy of Indian Dances and also runs a Mohiniyattam centre in Chennai.

Upcoming Academy Events

In accordance with the Music Academy's press release, the Sangita Kalanidhi awardee T M Krishna will preside over the 98^th Annual Conference and Concerts, which are scheduled from December 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025. He, along with other honorees, will receive their awards at the Sadas on the final day. Moreover, the Nritya Kalanidhi award will be presented during the inauguration of the 18th Annual Dance Festival on January 3, 2025.

music, activism, honor