Chord and discord

There has been much noise and discontentment in recent times over happenings related to the classical music world. Social media has been churning the ocean. A lot of things are emanating from this modern-day oceanic upheaval, though in this case, nectar is far from sight. For one, intolerance towards another opinion. Second, scant respect for the other’s views. Third, lack of argument, often fanned by a sycophantic posture or otherwise. Fourth, because all else is absent, is abuse. Finally, the question of debate itself — of awards and the legitimacy of choices.

We have been disturbed over who should win a medal for social causes through music. Debatable as this issue is, and it has rubbed many the wrong way for several reasons, it brought to my mind the cause itself. You firmly need to be the change you desire to see around you, as the Mahatma urged. So when a friend sponsored music lessons for her maid’s children, or a dance school I know welcomed a group of girls from an orphanage into their fold, it is one step in that direction. A social cause this Yes. Some make small moves, some make bigger moves, but they all contribute at the end of the day to the kitty. You do not always have to be the enfant terrible to be heard. I recall with reverence and fondness my mridangam guru the late Tiruchi Raghava Iyer. For years he toiled, come rain or sun, with his mridangam lessons around the city of Mumbai, epitomising sincerity and integrity, carrying the torch of laya to one and all who showed interest, regardless of their social background and even coaching many without caring for the monetary offerings. Working towards a social cause A vehement “yes”. Our lyrics have championed societal causes since centuries, sprinkling social commentary in with spiritual underpinnings. Purandara dasa’s lilting lyrics can be scathing, as he battled social ills even as early as the 15th century. Tyagaraja gently urges people to look through their narrow ritualistic attitudes. So do Tukaram’s abhangs. Putting cause before self is a tall order. Working for the cause happens more often than not in imperceptible ways, often unseen, unheard but quietly felt. Remove the screen of anger, arrogance, jealousy, implores Tyagaraja in his immortal Tera Teeyagarada. Many such screens that blind us need to go before we can see light in the modern day quagmire that we live in. Until then we forget the rest and just listen to the music.

Dr Vasumathi Badrinathan is an eminent Carnatic vocalist based in Mumbai. She can be contacted on vasu@vasumathi.net