It’s the Perfect Moment to Share the Stage: Carnatic Vocalist TM Krishna on Organizing the ‘Voices of …’
At the heart of the upcoming ‘Voices of Diversity’ music festival in Delhi curated by Carnatic vocalist TM Krishna lies the profound question of what democracy truly means in the context of our personal spaces, surroundings, and the art we create. Krishna passionately believes that music possesses a unique ability to initiate conversations and evoke emotions that words sometimes fail to express. Through this festival, he aims to spotlight the sounds and rhythms of those on the fringes of society, emphasizing their voices that have the power to influence and transform individuals like himself. Scheduled to take place from October 9 to 12 amidst the picturesque setting of Sunder Nursery, the event is themed around “voices of diversity”, offering a platform for established and emerging artists from all corners of India to engage in discussions revolving around concepts of freedom, identity, resistance, and cultural heritage.
The festival lineup showcases a diverse array of performers representing various genres and cultural backgrounds. From a captivating Lavani performance celebrating the lives of traditional artists from Maharashtra to a poetic collaboration featuring women figures like Mirabai and Lingamma, whose narratives are often overlooked, the festival promises a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. The presence of acts like the Kashmiri poetry-infused rock band Parvaaz and Manipur’s Imphal Talkies & The Howlers, who sing about the themes of struggle and defiance, adds a political undertone to the musical presentations. Notable inclusions such as India’s first female hip-hop collective, Wild Wild Women, and the soulful acoustic ballads of Hindustani rock band Ankur Tewari and The Ghalat further broaden the scope of the festival’s offerings.
In a conversation with TM Krishna, he sheds light on the inspiration behind curating a festival centered on the theme of ‘voices of diversity’. He articulates the necessity of breaking societal norms and restrictions related to artistic expression, emphasizing the significance of creating bridges between different cultures and musical traditions. By fostering a dialogue between varied artistic practices and engaging with themes of resistance, identity, and marginalization, the festival seeks to amplify voices that are often marginalized and overlooked in mainstream narratives. Krishna stresses the importance of inclusivity in artistic spaces by providing a platform for artists from different backgrounds to share their unique perspectives and challenge existing norms.
Krishna’s vision for the festival extends beyond mere musical performances. One of the highlights of the event is a specially commissioned work titled ‘Nannajya, My Grandfather’s’, which explores drumming traditions from South India, particularly those associated with Dalit communities. Through this piece, Krishna aims to delve into the cultural heritage and identity of these communities, offering a nuanced portrayal of their lived experiences and social struggles. The festival’s lineup, including this commissioned work, reflects a commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and local narratives that resonate with contemporary socio-political realities.
In the current socio-political climate, artists and festival curators hold a significant responsibility to engage with the pressing issues of their society. Krishna emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic values not only in abstract terms but also in the artistic endeavors and cultural spaces we inhabit. By bringing together artists who embody their unique local truths and perspectives, the festival serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and connections within the artistic community. As curators, Krishna believes that it is vital to align artistic practices with the democratic ideals enshrined in the Constitution, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society. The ‘Voices of Diversity’ festival stands as a testament to the power of art in fostering dialogue, building bridges between diverse communities, and championing the voices of those often unheard.