Temple musicians want permanent jobs

Secunderabad: The musicians of Ujjaini Mahakali Temple who have been part of the temple festivities are demanding permanent jobs. Venkat owner of Nagaswaram band said, “Since 15 years we are part of the Mahankali temple in Secunderabad. Nagaswaram is played by us and we fear that the next generation is not going to take up the job due to less pay and there are no benefits in this profession. We are playing since 15 years only for RS 15000 and not even a permanent job, KCR promised to make our job permanent in temple but there is no response from the temple members.”    
  
Speaking to Ramulu who plays Dolu in temple said, “I am from Mahabubnagar and learned traditional music from my grandfather and it has been passed to us and we are following our tradition in this temple. I get Rs 15000. In the past we used to be called for marriages but there are several bands in the city so we get few events to play.”

Speaking to Venkata Subbaya plays Shehnai in temple said, “There are 5 members in our band we are from Rayalaseema and Mahabubnagar. Each person gets Rs 15,000 per month. We work from 6 to 7 am and again from 5 to 9 pm. Whenever a VIP visits the temple, we are called. At times when we play in a marriage, we get Rs 8,000 but otherwise we are dedicated to the temple.

BY Spandana Nimma