MYSURU: Organisers of a TM Krishna event in the city have received threats against hosting the Carnatic vocalist to uphold “dharma” and the honour of “shastriya” music.Krishna, a Ramon Magsaysay awardee, has received threats from right-wing outfits in the past for singing Christian hymns and songs on non-Hindu themes. Hitting back, he had vowed in August to release a Carnatic song on Jesus or Allah every month.In Mysuru, he is to hold a concert and workshop on ‘Rare Kritis of Sri Muthuswamy Dikshitar’ on November 22 and 23. The events, hosted by Ganabharathi, will be held in Kuvempu Nagar.Over the past few days, however, social media is rife with messages urging opposition to the event. “This we must do as a duty to defend dharma and honour of shastriya (classical) music,” read one.One user who forwarded the messages said Krishna had brought disrepute to Carnatic music by singing in praise of gods of different faiths. “Carnatic music was developed to praise Hindu gods, goddesses, environment, life and people. But he has used the same ragas and music for adharma,” he said.Event organisers confirmed that they had received many such messages and one call on Tuesday. “If anyone has any issues, they must come and talk to us. Why these messages and calls?” one of the organisers said. CR Himamshu, former syndicate member of the Karnataka State Dr. Gangubhai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University, said the allegations levelled against Krishna are false.Music afficionados have urged police to initiate action against those attempting to create fear ahead of the event. “India is known for its liberal values. By spreading this kind of venom, these anti-social elements are distorting our values,” said Saraswati Devi, a music lover.

Stay updated with all the Latest Mysore headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.