The origin of Indian classical music goes back to the Vedic time, when the Hindu saints, deep in meditation would contemplate different sound vibrations and tonal patterns and the effect it has on consciousness. In later time, the priests would chant Vedic verses to certain Melodic Scales (Ragas) in the temple.
It was and still is usually and preferably taught orally from guru to disciple, so the student can learn all the details and nuances of the art form. The relationships between the Guru (teacher) and Shishya (student) is that of a father/mother and child. Like other spiritual traditions and paths, it is started at a young age and it requires a lot of dedication and practice to properly learn the art form. One life time is not good enough. A musician belongs to a particular gharana (house) or lineage, each having its own traditions and manner of rendition and style.
Indian classical music has a loose structure for the musicians to follow and the rest is improvised in the moment which comes from extensive training and vigorous practice. The performance is a more of a creation that creates an experience of presence and meditation for the listeners. Indian classical music is more of a spiritual experience rather than just mere entertainment for the enjoyment of the senses.
Although Indian classical music can be quite complicated with all the different Ragas (Scales) and complex rhythmic cycles, it is not necessary to know about the science behind it to enjoy and appreciate the beauty and aesthetics of this art form.
What is Raga?
Indian classical music is based on Ragas. In North Indian classical system, the Raga is a combination of notes that create the mood of the particular time of the day or night. The day is divided in 3×8 = 24 hours. Specific Ragas should be practiced and performed in that time cycle. This does not apply to South Indian classical music. The Sanskrit meaning of raga is to color, so in terms of music this means that which colors or leaves a certain impression on the listener. Each raga has a certain mood. It creates an atmosphere and aura which take us to a world of peace and tranquility. The prolonged notes have a calming effect on human-beings and also on animals. Let me tell you a story.
Knowledge or no knowledge of the intricacies of any art form, what is most important is the feeling and lasting effects that the listeners receive from the experience.
In Indian classical music it is all about hitting the perfect Swara. What is Swara? “Swa” means self and “ra” means to bring forth or throw light upon. Meaning, the singer should go deep within and bring the essence of his/her self to the surface. Only then it touches the core of your being. The principle is the same as a pendulum clock, the oscillation is identical on both sides. So when a musician sings from within, almost touching his/her soul, then the pendulum swings in the opposite direction to touch your soul.
Being in perfect Sur (Tune) is what music is all about. To strike the note accurately is like walking on the razor’s edge. Other than at that specific point, any other place is off-key. If by some miracle one strikes that perfect position, is no more a razor’s edge. It becomes broad and opens into a vast space. This can only be accomplished through Swara Sadhana (vigorous practice), where meticulously a student practices everyday each and every note, polishing it, till it shines with purity and resonance which puts a brilliantly cut diamond to shame.
What does music teach us?
Music helps us to train ourselves in harmony, which is the magic or the secret behind music. When you hear music that you enjoy, it tunes you and puts you in harmony with life. Therefore, we need music, we long for music. Music develops that faculty by which one learns to appreciate all that is good and beautiful. Music helps us to concentrate, meditate and centre our mind.
Words do not make music spiritual any more than virtuosity would. Music needs no language or gimmicks. Words, virtuosity, tremendous control, mastery over rhythm, a massive repertoire are all fabrics with which a musician “clothes” that Swara for people to enjoy. So, all that is required is humbleness or a near egoless state and a perfectly placed Swara- that is spirituality in music. And surprisingly one can find it in any music.
