However, while there is little dispute about the genius and craftsmanship of Ilaiyaraaja’s music, his politics have often been a matter of contention. Adherents of various ‘progressive’ political ideologies—whether they are communist, Periyarist or Ambedkarite—have been critical of Ilaiyaraaja’s politics, or rather their interpretation of it. Even in progressive Periyarist and Ambedkarite circles, there has been a struggle to comprehend Ilaiyaraaja’s politics. For these reasons, both anti-caste circles have been unable to find a place for Ilaiyaraaja’s politics. Like saint-poet Thiruvalluvar’s Thirukural, Ilaiyaraaja’s music is firmly rooted in Tamil life, but still has a message for the world.

Source: Huffington Post June 07, 2020 02:03 UTC