Greatness of Carnatic Music
Nature of Music
Art (Kalā) is a medium of expression. We express our emotions through an art of our liking. The origin of art is nature. The various sounds (Shabda) and specialties, such as the calls of animals and birds and the roaring of the ocean, exist in nature and are instrumental in awakening the dormant music, an art within us. With our skill, we create systematic Art.
We depend on employment to sustain our lives and play sports for entertainment. Art practice helps us develop good habits, concentration, memory, creativity, understanding, and a good nature. Thus, the arts cultivate the culture of good human beings. Civilized and cultured men and women are the builders of the nation.
Indians called all the branches of knowledge Arts. Ancient Hindu texts mention sixty-four such arts, broadly classified into Fine Arts, Applied Arts, Scientific Arts, and Commerce Arts.
Music occupies the first place among fine arts. It is universally accessible, regardless of time, place, or age, making it an ideal medium for expression and enjoyment. It helps relieve boredom and relax the brain while practicing other things. This unique quality has earned music a paramount position in the realm of fine arts. Music is as ancient as Vēdas. Its origins can be traced to the 5000-year-old Vēdic text Sāmavēda.
Fine arts are essential for everyone. It gives peace to a disturbed person under mental pressure. Listening to the right music helps the brain and blood circulation well. This enhances mental peace and kinetic energy. Music is the only fine art that can be learned at any age if a person can sing. A physically handicapped person, except a deaf and dumb person, can be a performer. There is no barrier of region, place, time, or age for music. There, the music is honored as the best among all fine arts.
Indian Classical Music
Classical music is systematized music based on sound principles. It is purely devotional. Its ultimate philosophy is to attain mōkśha (salvation), the end of life’s journey. Shreepādarāya, Purandaradāsa, Tyāgarāja, Shyāmashāstri, Muttuswāmy Dīkshita, Nijaguṇashivayōgi, and a few others have attained mōkśha through music.
Classical music is highly valued in society. It transcends social problems and takes the singer and the listener to a higher plane. Both Karṇāṭaka Sangeeta and Hindūsthāni Sangeeta are spiritual and hence relieve grief.
Classical music is of a higher order than other types of music. Classical music has transcended social evils such as exploitation, oppression, and unrest. It provides mental peace and does not need compositions that respond to such issues. There is no need to use classical music for such literature. The goal of classical music is only mental well-being.
Singing or listening to the music is a good exercise to the body and mind. Music is an entertainment which keeps the mind peaceful. Music is closely involved in Science and mathematics. Musical sound is produced naturally, hence described as physics. Vibrations create Swara (note) and Sthaayi (octave). Musical instruments are based on the principles of physics. Added to this, tape recorders, radio, TV, recording rooms, are devised on the principles of physics. Brain becomes strong by practising music. Thala (rhythmic pattern) and its parts, swarakalpana, ragalapana are based on science. Physically handicapped person except a deaf and dumb person can be a performer. Listening to the music helps in a good function of brain and blood circulation. This enhances mental peace and kinetic energy.
In India, Music is considered as ancient Vedas (Most sacred scripture of Hinduism), The Original of music traced from Samavedha (The Sama Veda is purely a liturgical collection of melodies (‘saman’) and from the folk music of every region.
Music is the most divine blessing that the nature has gifted to its creations. It is an incarnation of the supreme power that is omnipresent in the Universe from the beginning of time. It is the hidden mellifluous harmonics of the ultimate creation that belongs to the nature and always exists in the Universe. Human beings have just discovered and derived it from the nature. The ultimate purpose of music is to create happiness and evoke wonderful emotions in the minds of the listeners and the musicians. A music would become pious if it could portray the emotions and feelings that a normal human being goes through in his day-to-day life such as, Bhakthi, Happiness, Sorrow, Grief of separation, Romance, Parental love etc. Any music which conveys these emotions to the listeners, relieves their everyday stress and uplift them to an ultimate level of ecstasy is certainly a great music. Such music holds the signature of the universal soul. A true music lover is the one who preserves all such blissful music so close to heart just like embracing God because eventually, it is all one and the same. Music has no barriers such as Geographic locations, Linguistic differences, Religion, Caste, Musical Forms etc. Based on the needs and social way of living, the musical styles vary from region to region. The common factor that flows through all good creations of music and binds them together is nothing but the soulful melody which deeply touches the listeners. May it be any musical form, but if it is soothing and harmonious then it is a rich musical creation and should be admired and honored. An ardent lover of music would obviously appreciate a tune that is soothing to his ears and mind and would respect it from the bottom of his heart. A very good listener would always wander in search of glorious and attractive tunes. He becomes a slave of melodious creations in music and surrenders himself to the greatness of music.
Art (Kalā) is a medium of expression. We express our emotions through an art of our liking. The origin of art is nature. The various sounds (Shabda) and specialties, such as the calls of animals and birds and the roaring of the ocean, exist in nature and are instrumental in awakening the dormant music, an art within us. With our skill, we create systematic Art.
We depend on employment to sustain our lives and play sports for entertainment. Art practice helps us develop good habits, concentration, memory, creativity, understanding, and a good nature. Thus, the arts cultivate the culture of good human beings. Civilized and cultured men and women are the builders of the nation.
Indians called all the branches of knowledge Arts. Ancient Hindu texts mention sixty-four such arts, broadly classified into Fine Arts, Applied Arts, Scientific Arts, and Commerce Arts.
- Fine Arts: Fine arts or creative arts refers to the expression of ideas, emotions, and imagination through various forms of arts such as:
- Visual Arts like painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and other forms of visual expression.
- Performing Arts like music, dance, theater, film, and other performances.
- Literary Arts include literature, poetry, fiction, playwriting, and other creative writing.
Music occupies the first place among fine arts. It is universally accessible, regardless of time, place, or age, making it an ideal medium for expression and enjoyment. It helps relieve boredom and relax the brain while practicing other things. This unique quality has earned music a paramount position in the realm of fine arts. Music is as ancient as Vēdas. Its origins can be traced to the 5000-year-old Vēdic text Sāmavēda.
Fine arts are essential for everyone. It gives peace to a disturbed person under mental pressure. Listening to the right music helps the brain and blood circulation well. This enhances mental peace and kinetic energy. Music is the only fine art that can be learned at any age if a person can sing. A physically handicapped person, except a deaf and dumb person, can be a performer. There is no barrier of region, place, time, or age for music. There, the music is honored as the best among all fine arts.
- Applied Arts: Functional art is called applied art. It includes Crafts (furniture, plastic or glass works, etc.), manufacturing, design, architecture, and other forms of day-to-day living.
- Scientific Arts: The subjects in science like Physics. Chemistry and Biology are considered Scientific Arts.
- Commerce Arts: Trade and its secrets come under Commercial Arts.
Indian Classical Music
Classical music is systematized music based on sound principles. It is purely devotional. Its ultimate philosophy is to attain mōkśha (salvation), the end of life’s journey. Shreepādarāya, Purandaradāsa, Tyāgarāja, Shyāmashāstri, Muttuswāmy Dīkshita, Nijaguṇashivayōgi, and a few others have attained mōkśha through music.
Classical music is highly valued in society. It transcends social problems and takes the singer and the listener to a higher plane. Both Karṇāṭaka Sangeeta and Hindūsthāni Sangeeta are spiritual and hence relieve grief.
Classical music is of a higher order than other types of music. Classical music has transcended social evils such as exploitation, oppression, and unrest. It provides mental peace and does not need compositions that respond to such issues. There is no need to use classical music for such literature. The goal of classical music is only mental well-being.
Singing or listening to the music is a good exercise to the body and mind. Music is an entertainment which keeps the mind peaceful. Music is closely involved in Science and mathematics. Musical sound is produced naturally, hence described as physics. Vibrations create Swara (note) and Sthaayi (octave). Musical instruments are based on the principles of physics. Added to this, tape recorders, radio, TV, recording rooms, are devised on the principles of physics. Brain becomes strong by practising music. Thala (rhythmic pattern) and its parts, swarakalpana, ragalapana are based on science. Physically handicapped person except a deaf and dumb person can be a performer. Listening to the music helps in a good function of brain and blood circulation. This enhances mental peace and kinetic energy.
In India, Music is considered as ancient Vedas (Most sacred scripture of Hinduism), The Original of music traced from Samavedha (The Sama Veda is purely a liturgical collection of melodies (‘saman’) and from the folk music of every region.
Music is the most divine blessing that the nature has gifted to its creations. It is an incarnation of the supreme power that is omnipresent in the Universe from the beginning of time. It is the hidden mellifluous harmonics of the ultimate creation that belongs to the nature and always exists in the Universe. Human beings have just discovered and derived it from the nature. The ultimate purpose of music is to create happiness and evoke wonderful emotions in the minds of the listeners and the musicians. A music would become pious if it could portray the emotions and feelings that a normal human being goes through in his day-to-day life such as, Bhakthi, Happiness, Sorrow, Grief of separation, Romance, Parental love etc. Any music which conveys these emotions to the listeners, relieves their everyday stress and uplift them to an ultimate level of ecstasy is certainly a great music. Such music holds the signature of the universal soul. A true music lover is the one who preserves all such blissful music so close to heart just like embracing God because eventually, it is all one and the same. Music has no barriers such as Geographic locations, Linguistic differences, Religion, Caste, Musical Forms etc. Based on the needs and social way of living, the musical styles vary from region to region. The common factor that flows through all good creations of music and binds them together is nothing but the soulful melody which deeply touches the listeners. May it be any musical form, but if it is soothing and harmonious then it is a rich musical creation and should be admired and honored. An ardent lover of music would obviously appreciate a tune that is soothing to his ears and mind and would respect it from the bottom of his heart. A very good listener would always wander in search of glorious and attractive tunes. He becomes a slave of melodious creations in music and surrenders himself to the greatness of music.
Music and Science
Music is an art form that evolved in a scientific and mathematical background. Every movement in nature is scientifically systematic and rhythmic. Don’t we know that our body parts also function in rhythm? Similarly, there is a close relationship between music and physiology, music and physics, music and mathematics, music and psychology, music and sociology, and so on. The study of music, which is growing scientifically in various ways, is essential for everyone.
If the principal organs of the human body, such as the throat, ears, and lungs, are not used regularly, their strength will gradually decrease and may even disappear. Due to this, not practicing music harms shāreera (physical strength of singing) and the physical and mental health of those who don’t practice it. In this regard, music is essential for everyone.
Nāda (musical tone) is the basis for Music. Music is based on sound, and sound is a topic of physics. Therefore, Nādōtpatti (tonal production), swarasthānas (pitch ranges), subtle or microtones of a sthāyi (pitch or shruti of a note), making of musical instruments, and the instrument’s tonal quality are some of the topics that connect music and physics.
Moreover, devices such as speakers, sound amplifiers, sound recording devices, tape recorders, radio, and televisions that aid music broadcasting are also related to physics. Music recording studios, echo-free music halls, gramophones, and storage devices are all designed on physics principles.
Tāḷa (rhythm) is the process of synchronizing Geeta (music), Vadana (instrumental music), Nartana (dance), and other art forms within a specific time frame. This creates a balance of time and stability, which leads to enjoyment and pleasure. Otherwise, they would have been wandering without any direction or purpose. Note that this rhythmic background, called tāḷa, measures and fixes not only an event but also silences or pauses in music and dance. The practice of tāḷa enhances the intellect of the artist.
Music is one of the fine arts that provides solace to the mind. Experiments are being conducted in psychology to alleviate mental stress through music. When mental development is nourished, discipline and music practice become natural, and life becomes joyful.
Music produces happiness in the brain by releasing hormones, giving peace to the mind for individuals and groups. Singing and playing music in a group creates a sense of unity and teamwork, boosting courage and confidence and making it psychologically beneficial. Sāhitya in the composition is literature. Bhāva and rasa are the subjects of psychology.
Music is an integral part of society and an art form essential to social well-being. It is associated with social, family, and public functions. Invocatory songs invoke God. Songs composed for various occasions like festivals, marriages, childbirths, naming ceremonies, and so on are different forms of music. Different regional music has developed along with classical music.
Music transcends religions, genders, classes, status, creeds, and language barriers, promoting emotional unity. It is diverse and has various forms, including classical music, devotional music, folk music, traditional music, temple music, light music, dance music, theater music, and film music, which cater to different sections of society and evolve accordingly. Folk music can be traced back to every region. Music brings unity in diversity. Music relates to many subjects.
Music is an art form that evolved in a scientific and mathematical background. Every movement in nature is scientifically systematic and rhythmic. Don’t we know that our body parts also function in rhythm? Similarly, there is a close relationship between music and physiology, music and physics, music and mathematics, music and psychology, music and sociology, and so on. The study of music, which is growing scientifically in various ways, is essential for everyone.
- Music and Physiology: Physiology is the scientific study of how living things work (functions and processes that occur in living organisms’ bodies) and how they respond to their environment. The role of music in the development of the human body is vast. Isn’t it amazing that music helps in the healthy development of the lungs, a strong heart, balanced mental energy, and nerve movement? In short, music practice is an easy way to control human physical and psychological health. Mainly, the vocal music depends on physiology. Voice production, the ears, lungs, windpipe, voice box, larynx, tongue, lips, and teeth must be used appropriately while singing. The brain becomes strong by practicing music.
If the principal organs of the human body, such as the throat, ears, and lungs, are not used regularly, their strength will gradually decrease and may even disappear. Due to this, not practicing music harms shāreera (physical strength of singing) and the physical and mental health of those who don’t practice it. In this regard, music is essential for everyone.
- Music and Physics: Musical sound is produced naturally. Vibrations create swara and sthāyi, which is why sound is described as physics.
Nāda (musical tone) is the basis for Music. Music is based on sound, and sound is a topic of physics. Therefore, Nādōtpatti (tonal production), swarasthānas (pitch ranges), subtle or microtones of a sthāyi (pitch or shruti of a note), making of musical instruments, and the instrument’s tonal quality are some of the topics that connect music and physics.
Moreover, devices such as speakers, sound amplifiers, sound recording devices, tape recorders, radio, and televisions that aid music broadcasting are also related to physics. Music recording studios, echo-free music halls, gramophones, and storage devices are all designed on physics principles.
- Music and Mathematics: As the breath is essential for a body, tāḷa (rhythm) is crucial to music. As there is no life without breath, there is no music without tāḷa. Where there is tāḷa, its parts, swarakalpana, rāgālāpana, there is mathematics.
Tāḷa (rhythm) is the process of synchronizing Geeta (music), Vadana (instrumental music), Nartana (dance), and other art forms within a specific time frame. This creates a balance of time and stability, which leads to enjoyment and pleasure. Otherwise, they would have been wandering without any direction or purpose. Note that this rhythmic background, called tāḷa, measures and fixes not only an event but also silences or pauses in music and dance. The practice of tāḷa enhances the intellect of the artist.
- Music and Psychology: Psychology studies how people think, feel, and behave. It aims to understand why people do what they do and how to help them live better lives.
Music is one of the fine arts that provides solace to the mind. Experiments are being conducted in psychology to alleviate mental stress through music. When mental development is nourished, discipline and music practice become natural, and life becomes joyful.
Music produces happiness in the brain by releasing hormones, giving peace to the mind for individuals and groups. Singing and playing music in a group creates a sense of unity and teamwork, boosting courage and confidence and making it psychologically beneficial. Sāhitya in the composition is literature. Bhāva and rasa are the subjects of psychology.
- Music and Sociology: Sociology studies how people interact with each other and the social structures that govern their lives. It examines how society shapes individual behavior and how people can work to create positive social change.
Music is an integral part of society and an art form essential to social well-being. It is associated with social, family, and public functions. Invocatory songs invoke God. Songs composed for various occasions like festivals, marriages, childbirths, naming ceremonies, and so on are different forms of music. Different regional music has developed along with classical music.
Music transcends religions, genders, classes, status, creeds, and language barriers, promoting emotional unity. It is diverse and has various forms, including classical music, devotional music, folk music, traditional music, temple music, light music, dance music, theater music, and film music, which cater to different sections of society and evolve accordingly. Folk music can be traced back to every region. Music brings unity in diversity. Music relates to many subjects.
Cultural , Intellectual, Emotional and Spiritual aspects of Carnatic Music
Music has existed from the very beginning of history. It is found in all countries irrespective of whether the people are cultured or uncultured, literate or illiterate. People were always attracted by the beauty in any form of music appealed to him more than all other arts, because it pleases as soon it was produced. Though only a few nations have developed a classical system of music, we find music playing an important role in the lives of the people. Music appeals to all people irrespective of nationality, race, caste, creed and religion.
Music appeals to the cultural, intellectual, emotional and spiritual instincts of man. Musicians belongs to the world. A good musician contributes much towards creating better understanding between the people of different countries. A musician through disciplined and controlled behaviors during his concert, also learns how to behave in a cultured manner with their surroundings.
Carnatic music has played an integral role in Indian society for centuries. Its significance goes beyond just being a performing art. It is deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural fabric of the nation. The rhythmic and melodic patterns of Carnatic music have been used in religious rituals, cultural ceremonies, and festivals, creating a sacred ambiance and connecting people to their spiritual selves.
In the classical music tradition of India, music has been considered a means to attain spiritual elevation. Ancient saints and poets used music as a powerful medium to express their devotion and love for the divine. Carnatic music’s ability to evoke profound emotions and touch the soul has made it a quintessential part of Indian spirituality.
Beyond its spiritual aspect, Carnatic music has also been instrumental in preserving Indian cultural traditions. The compositions often depict ancient stories, mythologies, and historical events, thus acting as a repository of Indian cultural heritage.
On the intellectual aspect, music has much to offer to those interested in the higher, subtler aspects of the art. Study of the intricate swara – patterns to form new ragas and of difficult talas and the permutations and the combinations of the angas and shodasha angas to create new time measures prove to be a never-failing source of knowledge. Discovery and development of new compositions, the preparation of rare pallavis in rare and obscure talas, the construction of new kinds of musical instruments and subtler aspects of the subjects like raga and rasa, raga and the time of singing are all subjects which present a challenge to the keenest intellect.
In Carnatic music, all the South Indian languages have been used prolifically, in addition to the ancient classical Indian language, Sanskrit. The Telugu language has been especially widely used in the compositions. There is also a wide repertoire in Tamil and Kannada, and a smaller range in Malayalam. Occasionally, select songs in more northern languages like Marathi, Hindi and Braj Bhasha have been incorporated into Carnatic music. This adds to the rich variety of Carnatic music.
Though music, in general, transcends barriers like religion, caste, creed, sex, language, etc., Carnatic music is strongly attached to and influenced by Hinduism (the predominant religion in India from very ancient times). The basic fact that many scholars have even attributed the origin of music to the Gods (some to Brahma and others to Siva), or to the Vedas, signifies the religious outlook. Besides this, almost all the compositions by various great composers of different eras are also in praise of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
The spiritual and mystic aspects of music is predominant in India. Music has a great and irresistible appeal to the saint just as the emotional aspect appeal to the rasika. The Trinity themselves contemplated on musical sound or Nada. The Saint composer Tyagaraja believes that dedication of one self to pure music was a means of attaining salvation. Music has been employed from time immemorial to attain mental peace and tranquility.
Most of the composers led pious, God-fearing lives, performing religious rituals while composing and singing in praise of God to attain salvation. Carnatic music is deeply rooted in the Indian thinking and the basic Indian faith and religion. This strongly symbolizes the traditional outlook. The theme of South Indian classical music is to refine one’s soul and body through discipline, and to make one sensitive to the infinite within one, to unite one’s breath with the breath of space and to unite one’s inner vibration with the vibration of the cosmos.
Carnatic music is considered spiritual and one that can elevate the individual, both intellectually and emotionally. The lyrics are mainly based on religious themes and talk about various Hindu philosophies.
Emotionally, music – especially melodious music is justly suited for expressing the deepest feelings of man. Man’s emotions are the same whether be his nationality, caste or creed and these emotions expressed through his music ‘Rasaanubhava’ is the major aspect of Sangitha. In ancient times, even the srutis and swaras were said to express the various emotions. So, raga which was created by the combinations of srutis and swaras naturally presented the various rasas. Ragas portray the nine rasas (Navarasas) – love, joy, sorrow, anger, wonder, courage, fear, disgust and tranquillity in an effective and attractive manner. Hence all the highly evolved compositions like kritis and padas are all rich in emotional content.
Carnatic music can not only evoke all the nine emotions mentioned in literature, but can also be experienced bereft of these common emotions. As it is, this music is both intellectual and entertaining, and appeal to both the qualities of the head and the heart. It is no wonder that such a concept and understanding of music developed into a form of worship, Nadopasana, and has carried many on its wings to self-elevation and merged with the ultimate truth. This sublime integration of various themes, religion, devotion, philosophy, emotions, intellect (science), entertainment and others with music, has created a vibrant life and tradition in this art form.
Carnatic music has predominantly been a part of the culture of the Southern states of India, namely, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. Over the years, other major cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi and Calcutta also have many organizations that sponsor Carnatic music concerts. Some musicians and teachers from the South, who have settled in these places, have also been responsible for the propagation of this system in these places and other frontiers of the country.
Today, Carnatic music also has a global presence. Many musicians perform at the international level. Awareness about this music system has been rapidly growing in various countries such as USA, Canada, France, Germany, UK, South Africa, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, etc., thanks to the initiative taken by South Indians living in these countries. Several foreigners have also begun to keenly appreciate and learn this traditional art form, in addition to writing about it.
Carnatic musicians and music lovers are considered pretty orthodox in their general outlook. They take great pride in their heritage and do their best to maintain the purity of the art and spread these values to the next generations.
While Carnatic music cherishes its rich heritage, it has also embraced innovation and adaptation to cater to modern sensibilities. Musicians today explore fusion with other musical genres, collaborating with artists from around the world, and experimenting with diverse musical styles.
This contemporary approach to Carnatic music has opened up new avenues for the art form. It has attracted a broader audience, including people from different cultural backgrounds, thereby expanding its global reach.
The future of Carnatic music is promising, provided it embraces change without compromising its core values. Sustaining the rich heritage of Carnatic music will require efforts to promote it as more than just an art form but also as a medium for spiritual and cultural expression. Introducing innovative teaching methods and leveraging technology can make Carnatic music more accessible and appealing to the younger generation. Collaborations with contemporary artists and exploring new musical dimensions can keep the art form vibrant and relevant. Moreover, recognizing the importance of music education in schools can create a new generation of music enthusiasts who appreciate the intricacies of Carnatic music.
In conclusion, Carnatic music has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, and its impact goes far beyond just being a musical tradition. Its roots in ancient scriptures, its profound connection with spirituality, and its harmonious relationship with classical dance forms make it a cherished and revered art form. As it evolves with the changing times and faces its challenges, the future of Carnatic music holds great promise. By preserving its traditions, embracing innovation, and nurturing young talent, Carnatic music will continue to shine as a precious gem in the cultural crown of India.
With passing time, the role of music has been changing. With Vedic beginnings and spiritual compositions, Indian music has seen numerous genres step in. Apart from the original classical forms, every foreign invasion brought with its musical influences, thus giving musicians more scope for creative and tuneful compositions. Today, the country has innumerable types of music that is enjoyed by people in every nook and corner. It could be in the form of live performances or what is heard and seen through the electrical medium.