Theft Of Tamil Music: The Evolution And Appropriation Of Carnatic Music
- IJLLR Journal
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Kiruthiga M, B.A.LL.B., Chennai Dr Ambedkar Law College, Pudupakkam.
ABSTRACT
The history and transformation of Tamil music, which has been foundational to the development of what is now recognized as Carnatic music. Tamil music, with its origins in the Sangam period, has a rich and ancient tradition that has deeply influenced the musical landscape of South India. The historical evolution of Tamil music and the subsequent appropriation and adaptation of these traditions by the Carnatic music trinity—Thyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshithar, and Syama Sastri—who are often credited with the creation of Carnatic music as it is known today. The Tamilisai trio—Sirkazhi Muthu Thandavar, Arunachalakavirayar, and Mari Muthapillai—who were significant figures in the Tamil music tradition, this reveals how their work laid the groundwork for the kirtan forms and other musical structures later popularized by the Carnatic music trinity. The Carnatic music trinity learned extensively from the Tamilisai trio and other Tamil musical traditions, adapting these elements into their compositions and translating them into Telugu and Sanskrit, thereby transforming Tamil music into what became known as Carnatic music. The Natya Shastra and Sangeetha Ratnakara, which are often cited as foundational to Carnatic music. This appropriation and rebranding of Tamil music under the label of Carnatic music is explored as a case of cultural appropriation, where the original Tamil contributions have been overshadowed by the later, more widely recognized Carnatic tradition. The need to recognize and celebrate the true origins of Carnatic music, which are deeply rooted in Tamil musical traditions, and to give due credit to the Tamilisai trio and other Tamil music scholars whose contributions have been historically marginalized. By bringing to light the historical and cultural theft of Tamil music, the rightful place of Tamil music in the history of South Indian classical music and to ensure that the legacy of Tamil music is preserved and appreciated for its true value.
Keywords: Tamil Music, Carnatic Music, Tamilisai Trio, Cultural Appropriation, Historical Evolution.
