CLASSICAL INDIAN MUSIC AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Abstract

Music is a universal language and it is a universal human trait. It is a medium for communication, which can be both pleasant and healing. Music is known as fifth veda; the ancient musical writings are generally spoken of as Gandharva Sastra. Music was an integral part of two epics of Indian Literature Ramayana and Mahabharata. Indian classical music has been shown to have a significant impact on the brain, with various studies highlighting its effects on brain activity, emotional responses, and cognitive functions. The rich diversity of ragas and talas in Indian classical music poses a challenge in standardizing their therapeutic application. Music therapy is gaining recognition worldwide, with universities offering courses ranging from certificates to doctorates. Music therapy is considered a deep-rooted treatment for mental and physical health, with the ability to heal at a fundamental level. Music’s therapeutic effects include encouraging socialization, self-expression, and motor development, and it can be both motivating and calming. The therapeutic potential of Indian classical music lies in its combination of notes. The raga, a combination of selected notes (Shruties) is related to different moods and emotions which can intensity definite feelings of joy, sorrow, peace, violence etc. The present focuses on the concept and characteristics of Classical Indian music, and how classical music affects the mind or mental well being.