T.M. Krishna Awarded Sangita Kalanidhi Title

Celebrated Carnatic musician T.M. Krishna was honored with the esteemed Sangita Kalanidhi title during the 98th annual conference and concerts of The Music Academy held in Chennai. The award was presented by a distinguished academic figure at this traditional convocation.

In addition, Parassala Ravi and Geetha Raja were recognized with the Sangita Kalaacharya title, while Dr. Margaret Bastin received the Musicologist Award for 2024. The Thiruvaiyyaru Brothers and violinist H.K. Narasimhamurthy were also honored with the TTK Award.

At the ceremony, the president of The Music Academy highlighted the exceptional quality of Mr. Krishna’s Christmas Day concert, noting the overwhelming enthusiasm from the audience and the incredible standing ovation he received.

A Surreal Experience

“The atmosphere was electric, with rasikas of all ages expressing a palpable energy and joy. T.M. Krishna has the unique ability to engage younger audiences and draw them into the realm of Carnatic music, which is essential for the evolution of our classical traditions,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt as the cultural landscape shifts.

Furthermore, he praised Krishna’s pivotal role as the President of the 98th Annual Conference and Concerts, noting that the academic sessions featured a curated theme that has not been seen in over two decades.

Gratefully accepting the title, Mr. Krishna reflected on his transformative journey, which began with organizing a music festival in 2015. He expressed the challenges he faced in the past decade, particularly the intensity of the previous year.

“This journey has not only been challenging but at times isolating. However, performing at The Music Academy on December 25 was profoundly meaningful for me,” he stated, highlighting that the personal connections of the audience that day left him filled with hope and joy.

Renowned academic insights were shared about the transformative power of Carnatic music, emphasizing its ability to impact both self and reality. This unique interplay between verbal and melodic components underscores the magic of the tradition.