Modernising Margazhi through social media

Such is the digitised nature of Margazhi today – with the need to use technology to attract wider audiences greater than ever – and the sabha scene, in all its traditional glory, is embracing it like never before this December. 

Says Carnatic artiste Rithvik Raja, “The classical music scene is the last to jump on the technology bandwagon – and with some hesitance. But a few who are more wired in, have taken it upon themselves to introduce these aspects to their routine as well as the performances – to great effect. It makes sense to reach out to rasikas who can inbox us their song requests or other feedback, via social media. Similarly, when we upload a clip of a concert via FB live – the audio quality is good too, and it gives audiences an idea of what to expect.”

Having said that, the Carnatic artiste is still averse to the idea of an entire event being webcast. “Bear in mind that this is not rehearsed and there’s no preparation involved. If the whole concert is telecast online, then why would watchers come to the sabhas?” 

Live-streaming may be a bone of contention for some, but sabha owners are happy that it is bringing in more viewers than before – and introducing an entirely new generation to the magic of the December season. But there is no denying that a variety of apps such as Zeekh, Twaang, Margazhi Sangeetham, Arangam and so on, have enhanced the experience. Audiences can send song recommendations to artistes, book cabs after rides, look in upon different schedules of specific musicians, and much more. This has come as a blessing for NRIs unable to travel to Chennai every December or even seniors unable to make it to the venues. 

Many performers even use technology to rehearse prior events. Danseuse Murugashankari Leo Prabhu quips, “Sending audio files of the music and the rhythm patterns using technology is quite common and helps in choreographing new pieces - which makes it easier during rehearsals that happen before the programme. It also saves time, as accompanists are really busy with back-to-back rehearsals.” 

Even the iPad has made an appearance at kutcheris now, with some nifty apps being used to replicate pretty much any instrument such as the mridangam or ghatam! While purists may still take awhile to accept the digital revolution with abandon, it is but an evolution that’s taking Margazhi to the next level.