Bengaluru: Karnataka boasts one of India's most vibrant musical legacies. Indeed, the name of the illustrious Carnatic classical music tradition itself originates from "Karnataka." Our state has nurtured legendary voices, timeless composers, and exceptional talents that have shaped the nation's soundscape.From stalwarts like Rajesh Krishnan, Hemant, Vijay Prakash, and Sanjith Hegde to a wave of emerging young artists, Karnataka teems with singers who embody the essence of Kannada cinema.

However, a troubling trend in contemporary Kannada film songs prompts a stark question: Why are local Kannada singers being denied prime opportunities in their own industry?Despite Karnataka's rich pool of vocal prowess, producers and directors increasingly favor out-of-state artists. These external singers, often grappling with Kannada pronunciation nuances, command fees several times higher than their local counterparts.

When Kannada talents do secure a slot, their remuneration falls woefully short of fair value. Take, for instance, a reported incident where a prominent producer balked at Sanjith Hegde's ₹2 lakh fee for a track—yet the same figurehead readily shells out ₹5 lakh or more for non-local performers without a second thought.This pay gap is indefensible. Shoetopia Women Block Heel Sandal

Local artists seeking equitable pay are dismissed as "overpriced," while outsiders quoting double are hailed as "market rate professionals."Is this just treatment for singers who live and breathe Kannada, infusing every melody with its raw emotion and cultural depth?It's high time we champion and elevate our homegrown Kannada voices. Let Kannada cinema evolve into a true reflection of Karnataka's pride, ingenuity, and soul—starting with its soundtrack.