Madras High Court Bars Music Academy From Using M S Subbulakshmi's Name For Award To T M Krishna Following Objection By Singer's Grandson

The Madras High Court has issued an interim order preventing the Music Academy from presenting the Sangita Kalanidhi M S Subbulakshmi Award to musician T M Krishna, citing the late singer’s expressed wishes.

The court clarified that while the award could be conferred, it should not be named after Subbulakshmi. Justice G Jayachandran passed the order in response to a suit filed by V Shrinivasan, Subbulakshmi’s grandson.

He argued that the award violated her explicit directives outlined in her last will, which stated that no trust, memorial, or award should be instituted in her name, LiveLaw reported.

Shrinivasan contended that T M Krishna’s criticisms of Subbulakshmi on social media, including accusations of promoting “Brahmanism,” undermined the late singer's legacy.

He argued that honoring Krishna with an award named after Subbulakshmi contradicted the values she upheld and amounted to disrespecting her memory.

The Music Academy had filed an application to dismiss the suit, claiming Shrinivasan lacked the legal standing to object. However, the court dismissed this claim, ruling that Shrinivasan, as a beneficiary of Subbulakshmi’s will, had the right to maintain the suit.

The court emphasised that respecting Subbulakshmi’s wishes was the best way to honor her legacy. It stated, "If any person is really having reverence and regard to MS Subbulakshmi, after knowing her desire and mandate, should not continue to give award in her name."

The award, instituted by The Hindu group and presented annually by the Music Academy, recognises exceptional contributions to Carnatic music. This year, it was to be conferred upon T M Krishna alongside the Sangita Kalanidhi title.

The High Court’s decision has reignited debates surrounding the interpretation of legacy, artistic expression, and the boundaries of institutional recognition.