‘Indian classical music is spiritual journey of nation’

I strongly believe that Indian classical music is the spiritual journey of our nation. It not only makes us introvert and calm, but also comprises healing property. Indian classical music is something, which creates spiritual bliss, firstly delights the performer himself and then, is shared by the listeners, making them relaxed mentally. This is the essence of our classical music even today, opined Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, internationally famed Santoor player and recipient of Padmashri, Padma Vibhushan, Sangeet Natak Academy and many other prestigious awards.
Pandit Shivkumar Sharma was in the city to perform in a function on Thursday.

It may be mentioned that Pandit Shivkumar and santoor are synonymous and their existence is hard to be imagined separately. Santoor, a folk instrument, originated in Kashmir, is now acknowledged as a classical instrument due to the persistent efforts and determination of Pandit Shivkumar Sharma. He is an optimist and flawless musician, who is very sanguine about bright future of Indian classical music.

According to him, Indian classical music will keep mesmerising listeners for centuries to come.
On comparison between past and present of classical music, Panditji said that 50 years back, the scene was completely different as there was no social media and not such projection, which is presently enjoyed by the artists. Listeners were less in number, but had deep knowledge of this art. After performance, they had the guts to criticize the artists as they had deep knowledge about music. Today, situation has completely changed, but still, youngsters are attending classical music concerts.

Though they don’t understand Ragas, but enjoy the soothing and peaceful classical notes. Their presence in such concerts is a positive sign that classical music is here to stay forever.

Talking about creation of ‘Antardhwani’, Panditji clarified “I don’t believe in creating new Ragas. I strongly believe that there are thousands of Ragas in Indian classical music. If any artist wants to pursue it, an entire life becomes less to achieve mastery on the existing Ragas.”
“During my tours in India and other countries, listeners used to tell me that my music helped them in meditation. They suggested to create a Raga completely dedicated to those, who meditate while listening to his music. And it must be based on Alaap without tabla.

One day, I was doing Riyaaz and changed the scale just to discover a new soothing note that had the power to make the listeners introvert and calm. I recorded that Raga and when the music recording company asked me its name, I became speechless as I had not decided its name yet. After realizing that it was the reflection of my soul, I called it Raga Antardhwani. Hence, ‘Antardhwani’ came into existence”, he added.

Panditji was quite happy to be in Jabalpur for the third time. “Jabalpur is quite a rich city with enthusiastic listeners who want to listen good music, but lags behind when it comes to number of good events organised. The city desperately needs passionate organisers to promote its rich cultural image. He also appealed Indian citizens to contribute in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to make the country a better place for coming generations. “Harsh music gives pain and leaves the listeners tortured and suffer for days. Similarly, unclean and unhygienic atmosphere fades the very image of India as a civilised and well-cultured country. Impurity and unhygiene block prosperity,” he emphasized.