Fund crunch makes Rayalaseema music college go off tune

Kurnool: Government-run Sarada Music College, the sole institution of its kind in Rayalaseema region, is grappling with lack of government support. It is struggling to pay even building rent and electricity bills. It has no funds to acquire new musical instruments, vital for holding music classes.

The institution started in 1973 in Kurnool as Sarada Sangeetha Kalashala for catering to needs of music learners in Rayalaseema districts. The inaugural batch has just 50 students. Students have now risen to nearly 300. The college offers various courses, including four-year certificate programmes and two-year diploma courses in music, dance, and singing, both classical and traditional.

Of late, the college has been facing significant problems due to a lack of government support. There is shortage of staff and trainers. There are only two permanent teachers including the principal, and nine contract teachers.

Murali Krishna, a violin student, highlights the severe challenges students face due to outdated instruments. He says basic amenities are lacking, such as washrooms, in the college premises. This affects the overall learning environment.

Musical instruments are inadequate, many of them non-functional. For example, out of 25 violins, 10 do not work. All the six pianos are inoperable, as are six dhols. 20 veenas are unusable. College lacks speakers, which significantly hinders the students' learning experience.

Ramanaiah, a time-scale violin teacher at the college, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating condition of instruments in various departments. He said new instruments are essential, especially if learners are to perfect their craft. The violin teacher emphasised on the importance of organising performances by experienced musicians and A-grade artists to inspire creativity among students. Payment has to be sufficient to attract them. The college has not conducted any programmes in the last decade.

Ramanaiah went on to seek regular payment of salaries, considering the financial constraints faced by teachers.

Principal C. Muni Kumar said while they are able to pay the building rent, electricity bill of the college is outstanding. He emphasised on the need for additional staff and enhanced facilities, including instruments, to sustain interest among students about their earning.