In conversation with Nataraj

CHENNAI: Former Director General of Police Nataraj, who is also an ardent music lover, is well updated about Carnatic music and dance. And the good news is, it shows that our culture has a bright future. Here are a few of his candid views on the Margazhi Festival...On the Margazhi Festival:This is the most satisfying festival of the year. It is looked forward to by every music buff and connoisseur. Moreover, there is no doubt that this music season attracts rasikas from all over the world. Present scenario:Another season is coming to a close. Although the season has been successful, there are disturbing signs such as poor attendance in the sabhas. Moreover, even the number of non-resident Indians, who flock to the city during the season, has come down. The growing disinterest in attending programmes by the younger generation rasikas is also a good enough reason to be worried. However, it feels good to know that seniors accompanying vidwans are providing support and encouragement to young artistes.Present Trend:Among the senior artistes, I could discern a conscious effort to explore unchartered areas by rendering unknown kritis and Oudava Ragas to bring freshness to the programme. It is disheartening that at times, the rasikas aren’t content till the time they get to listen to a song known to them. I am reminded of poet Bharathi who remarked that such rasikas have ears of steel which are insensitive to newness. On remedy:According to me, probably, the remedy lies in organising music appreciation sessions and making music as one of the compulsory  curricular activities.  On dwindling young rasikas:Most of the times, we see that for the performance of young dancers, the sound and light team members outnumber the audience. Let us not forget that a huge enthusiastic audience is what gives a major boost to the artiste.Remedy:To make it work, we should organise round-table discussions on various cultural aspects during the season. It should involve the artistes, sabhas, connoisseurs and laymen. If art and culture flourish, there cannot be a better path for order, peace and health in society — which is the ultimate mission of our life.