Neither a nationalist nor a patriot: Musician TM Krishna

In a bold take on the nationalistic fervour whipped up in the country overpowering rationalism and smothering divergent views, Magsaysay award winning musician T M Krishna said on Saturday that he is neither a nationalist nor a patriot as these terms are being widely conceived in India nowadays. 

Delivering KC John memorial lecture organised on the sidelines of Kovalam Literary Festival in Kerala capital, the renowned Carnatic musician said that he was ready to face sedition charges for declaring that he was not a patriot or a nationalist. He said he stands for the world where mutual respect and love prevail.

 Fear has overpowered freedom now. The interference on freedom has undermined the spirit of democracy.  Freedom of expression is getting restrained, he said reminding that the strength of India lies in its people and their diverse identities. The present government is trying to bundle them all together, threatening their respective identities, he regretted. 

Known as a rebel in Carnatic music circuit, Krishna was chosen for the prestigious Magsaysay award in July this year for bringing ‘social inclusiveness in culture’. 

Also watch: MG Radhakrishnan interviews TM Krishna

• TM Krishna
• nationalism debate
• Kovalam literary fest