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MS Subbulakshmi became the first musician to receive the Bharat Ratna and carried Indian classical music to audiences far beyond the concert hall. (Pictures: Instagram/@rashmikamandanna/@mookuthioffical)
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Moneycontrol•07-10-2026, 14:54
Uncovering the Surprising Stage Fright of Music Legend MS Subbulakshmi
  • •Legendary Carnatic vocalist MS Subbulakshmi candidly admitted that her greatest fear was giving performances, despite being one of India's most revered voices.
  • •A biopic titled MS A Legacy On Screen is in the works, with actor Rashmika Mandanna set to portray the iconic singer under the direction of Gowtam Tinnanuri.
  • •Subbulakshmi explained that she felt a heavy sense of responsibility toward her audience, making the crowd both a dedication and a source of fear.
  • •Her reflections highlight that profound fear does not negate talent or confidence, but rather reflects how deeply a person cares about their craft.
  • •The singer's experience teaches modern audiences that true courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to perform despite it.

Key Questions Answered

Actress Rashmika Mandanna portrays the legendary Carnatic vocalist MS Subbulakshmi in the biographical drama.

The biopic is directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, who is best known for his work on the film Jersey.

MS Subbulakshmi made history by becoming the first musician ever to receive the prestigious Bharat Ratna award.