There was a significant discussion about this as soon as it was printed. Sowmya's response to VVS was very scholarly and I remember his defense was something like "but this is what SSI said."
I think it is commendable that The Hindu featured the response from Smt. Sowmya to bring about some balance. However, I think Sri VS is to be credited for sticking his neck out and commiting himself to detailed and concrete observations and opinions of the concert. That IMHO was a refreshing departure from some of the vague, noncommital, or over-the-top reviews that were becoming staple fare. In recent times, the Hindu's December music supplements have tended to read like fawning newsletters of the Music Academy season.