By N. Anantha Narayanan – Veena Artiste
Introduction:
Did you know that Veena is a symbol of Indian Classical Music?
It is one of the oldest and most revered instruments in Indian classical music.
With its deep, resonant tones, it is often associated with the goddess Saraswati, symbolizing wisdom and creativity.
Understanding the Structure of the Veena
The veena is a large, stringed instrument traditionally made from wood, with a body that resembles a large, elongated gourd. For centuries, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscape of Indian classical music.
Veena and Human Body: A Unique Bond:
Body: The veena’s hollow wooden body represents the human torso, resonating with life and energy.
Strings: The strings symbolize the veins, carrying the flow of melodies like blood through the body.
Bridge: It acts as the heart, balancing and transmitting vibrations to create harmony.
Tuning Pegs: Like the mind, they align and refine, ensuring perfection in every note
The Historical Significance of the Veena
The veena’s roots trace back over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest known instruments in the world
In Rigveda – one of the ancient texts of Indian epics, Veena is mentioned as a divine instrument, symbolizing harmony and spirituality, often associated with the music of the gods
There are 7 strings and 24 frets on the Veena.
The First string is called SAARINI . This is the GNANASHAKTI OF RIGVEDA
The Second string is called PANCHAMA – KRIYASHAKTHI OF YAJURVEDA
The Third string is MANDARA – EICHHASHAKTHI OF SAMAVEDA
The Fourth string is ANUMANDARA – EICHHASHAKTHI OF ATHARVANA VEDA
The Shakthi mentioned above assembled together produce sound called NADA of the Veena
Renowned & acclaimed Veena Maestro Dr.S. Balachander quotes “The Veena is the voice of Indian classical music, where tradition and creativity merge in perfect harmony.”
We must know that veena is not only an instrument of music but also a source of cultural richness and health benefits.
But what are the benefits of playing and listening to the godly instrument Veena ?
A study titled “Study of Sarasvati Veena – A South Indian Musical Instrument Using Its Vibro-Acoustic Signatures“ was published in the Journal of Vibroengineering (August 2016)
It explored the instrument’s ability to produce resonating frequencies that align with calming brainwave patterns.
NOT JUST THAT! Let’s uncover the
Health Benefits of PLAYING THE VEENA
- Improves Hand-Eye Coordination: The intricate finger movements enhance motor skills and precision.
- Strengthens Core Muscles: The posture required to play the veena supports spinal alignment and improves physical strength.
- Reduces Stress: Playing soothing melodies calms the mind and lowers cortisol levels.
- Boosts Cognitive Function: Regular practice sharpens memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
- Enhances Emotional Well-Being: Expressing emotions through music fosters a sense of inner peace.
Health Benefits of LISTENING TO THE VEENA
- Relieves Anxiety: The veena’s calming tones have a meditative effect, reducing anxiety and tension.
- Promotes Relaxation: Its harmonious sound slows heart rate and encourages relaxation.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Listening to veena music can aid in combating insomnia by promoting deep relaxation.
- Elevates Mood: The soothing melodies trigger dopamine release, improving overall mood.
- Enhances Concentration: The resonating notes help improve focus and mental clarity.
We’re not yet done. Studies proves that even the foetus in mothers womb is said to have the following positive effects
- Stimulates Brain Development: The gentle vibrations and frequencies of veena music promote neural development in the unborn baby.
- Strengthens Emotional Bond: Listening to veena music can create a soothing connection between the mother and baby.
- Promotes Calmness: Veena music can help regulate foetal movements, fostering a sense of serenity.
Veena vs Violin: A Cultural and Musical Contrast:
Instrument Construction:
Veena : The veena is typically made of wood, with a large, resonant body often shaped like a sitar or lute.It has a fretted neck and usually features between 4 to 7 main strings along with additional sympathetic strings.
Violin : The violin, made primarily of wood as well, has a curved body and no frets. It has four main strings, tuned in perfect fifths.
Playing Technique:
Veena: Played seated, the musician uses their fingers to pluck the strings with one hand and presses the strings with the other.
Violin: Played with a bow, the violinist uses one hand to press down the strings on the fingerboard and the other to control the bow’s movement.
Tuning and Range:
Veena: The veena is tuned according to the specific raga being performed and offers a wider range of tonal possibilities with its microtonal intervals.
Violin: The violin is tuned in perfect fifths, offering a more uniform scale system compared to the veena
SARASWATI, the goddess of learning is described holding the Veena in her hands
The following shloka is recited by the famous Rishi YAGNAVALKA
“VEENA VADANA TATWAGNAHA SHRUTHI JATHI VISHARADAHA
TALAGNASCHA PRAYASENA MOKSHAMARGAM SA GACHHATI”
MEANING:
One who is well versed in playing Veena with the techniques of it and mastered the Shruthi and Jathi, can easily get MOKSHA (LIBERATION).
All music books speaks this in volumes.
This is why VEENA is an instrument which is held high esteem.
