Don’t bring narrow politics into music: CM Stalin tells T M Krishna’s critics

CHENNAI: Chief Minister M K Stalin on Saturday expressed solidarity with Carnatic singer T M Krishna and Music Academy and said that narrow politics must not be mixed with music.

Expressing solidarity and extending his warmest congratulations and appreciation to Krishna on being selected for the 'Sangeetha Kalanidhi' Award by#TheMusicAcademy for Best Singer, Stalin said, "It is regrettable that a section (of people) is intentionally criticizing Krishna with animosity for his progressive political views and consistent views in support of the lay people."

Appreciating the management of the Music Academy for choosing T M Krishna as a worthy candidate in recognition of his contributions to the music industry, the CM said, "T M Krishna's talent is undeniable. Don't mix narrow politics in music just as you mix religious beliefs with politics! The need of the day is to have a broad view of humanity, dismiss hate and embrace fellow human beings, " Stalin said.

"It is not fair to unnecessarily denigrate 'Thanthai' Periyar, who fought for equality of mankind and parity in treatment of women for three-quarters of a century in a non-violent and peaceful way. Anyone who reads Periyar's selfless biography and his thoughts would not attempt to slander against Periyar, " Stain remarked, after a few Carnatic singers objected to the Music Academy conferring the award on Krishna despite his views in support of Periyar.

Reacting to the issue BJP state president K Annamalai in his social media post said, "The music academy reverred as the temple of carnatic music and spiritual consciousness for more than nine decades is under threat of disintegation divisive forces detrimental to the sanctity of the organisation.