Page 154 - Sanidhya 2024

The Essence of Music:

A Universal Language of Life and Spirituality

Music, at its core, is a harmonious blend of exemplifies the spiritual nature
instrumental rhythms, melodies, and vocal expressions. of music. It is believed that music
Yet, its true essence extends far beyond these can awaken the nine chakras,
elements—it embodies the way of life. Music allows leading to spiritual enlightenment.
individuals to live more fully, cherish every moment and Each raag, or musical scale, in
gain insights that cannot be taught by conventional Indian classical music is an act of
means. It transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, devotion, dedicated to different
serving as a universal language understood by all living deities. For example, Raag
beings. Yaman is associated with Lord
Krishna, Raag Bheempalasi with Keshav Kant
Class- XI A
Music permeates everything around us, waiting Lord Shiva, Raag Durga with CRPF Public School, Rohini
for recognition. As Bob Marley aptly said, “One good Navdurga, and Raag
thing about music is that when it hits you, you feel Malhar with Lord Indra. These raagas
no pain.” Music possesses the unique power to heal, are not merely compositions;
soothing wounds and imparting lessons on the true they create sacred atmospheres,
meaning of peace. It reminds us that conflict and fostering a deeper connection with
violence arise from material greed, not necessity. the divine.

Globally, music exists in myriad forms— Musical traditions or gharanas, in
from Hindustani classical and jazz to rock India are often centred around temples,
and beyond. Yet in spirit, it is boundless. emphasizing music’s spiritual roots. The
Its ultimate purpose is to show us that Banaras Gharana, for instance, is closely
life itself is intertwined with music. As connected to the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
Beethoven profoundly observed, in Varanasi. Notable artists like Ustad Bismillah
“Music is the mediator Khan (Shehnai), Girija Devi (vocalist), and Sitara
between spiritual and Devi (dancer) emerged from this gharana,
sensual life.” This transcending religious boundaries. Ustad
sentiment touches on Bismillah Khan once said, “Music is the Universal
the deeper mysteries Religion,” underscoring its ability to unite people
of existence and the from all walks of life.
divine. Music existed
before humanity and In conclusion, music serves as a profound
will continue long after medium for spiritual awakening, connecting us to the
us. The ancient Hindu belief in the divine in meaningful ways. It exists in every aspect
cosmic sound “OUM” resonates with this of life, understood by humans, animals and most
idea, where “OUM” is said to have existed before the significantly, the divine. Music is a unifying force,
material world and to endure after its destruction. In bringing healing and peace. Ultimately, it is the
this sense, music is eternal. universal language of love, as the saying goes, “Where
words fail, music speaks.”
Indian classical music, comprising Hindustani
Shastriya Sangeet and Carnatic traditions, further

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