CHENNAI: Even ages ago, music was segregated as makkal isai, mann isai and mel isai, after all. Gaana, that was born in Tamil Nadu, has only now found a wide audience,” remarks Gaana Pa Julie Kumar.

“We might sing all over the world, but we are hardly recognised or lauded for our talent in our hometown and have no proper backing,” said S. Das, a gaana singer from Chennai. He was one of the many ...