Of Music, Philosophy and Happiness

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I was told in my childhood that mastering the Vedas required a certain scientific temper and proficiency of the Samskrut language. Once understood though, it was unlike any chapter you come across even in your highly revised syllabus. They contain knowledge ranging from how to conduct oneself in everyday life upto understanding the purpose of the same. Vedic mathematics and science had long back proved what we are discovering now. Well, that's a story for another day. For now, I want to talk about the hard to master part. It seems that the Sama Veda was written specifically to spread knowledge among the masses. They took the musical route to aid the process. Many could relate to it because of it's simplicity and I guess it is he inherent nature of the human mind to understand concepts better when they have some sort of harmony.

Ever since, music has been a part of our lives in one form or another. Today, we may not look at it as a source of knowledge, but more as a medium to connect to more people in our lives. As food, clothing and culture differ, evolve in different demographics, same applies to music. I have been lucky enough to be associated with music for a major chunk of my life. When I started my carnatic classical to help nurture my voice, I had no idea that music would mean so much to me. Although it is hard to find time/energy to practice the art everyday, I do my bit to ensure that I never lose touch. Don't we all want to listen to songs while driving/in the bathroom/working/relaxing or just sing along when you listen your favorite track on the radio? Perhaps I am not doing justice to the extent to which music influences our lives everyday. The iTunes, iPod were all successful because deep down, their essence was music (too deep I guess).

Along with singing, there was an insatiable appetite to learn the guitar. Only your imagination limits you from playing what you want with it. After a certain amount of learning, I started combining my two learning sets. They are the opposite ends of the spectrum, but the beauty of music binds them seamlessly. Just follow the basic rules of rhythm, tempo, tone etc., and magic happens. Magic that you and others can feel, appreciate, wonder.

These emotions were highlighted when I performed in an event after taking a break for almost two years. The manner in which I connected with the crowd, got their applause was something best experienced and cherished. We prepared hard, lip synced lines, forgot to eat, but the end result was so satisfying that all this just faded from our memories. I certainly appreciate the almighty for bestowing me with this ability and let my voice do the talking.

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