How Classical Music Engages with Indian Mythology: Storytelling through Ragas

Indian classical music is a profound art form that has evolved over thousands of years. At its core lies the concept of raga, a framework for melodic improvisation that is bound by specific rules yet allows for emotional expression. But beyond the technical mastery, Indian classical music holds a deep connection to India’s spiritual and mythological heritage. Through its unique ability to evoke emotions and depict stories, the tradition of classical music serves as a powerful tool for storytelling, often intertwining with ancient Indian mythology to create a profound narrative experience.

This article explores how Indian classical music, both in its Hindustani and Carnatic traditions, uses ragas and compositions to tell stories from Indian mythology, invoking characters, divine forces, and timeless tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, and other sacred texts.

Indian Classical Music and the Concept of Rasa

Before diving into specific examples, it’s essential to understand the concept of rasa, which is central to classical music’s storytelling power. Rasa refers to the emotional essence or flavor that a raga seeks to evoke in its listeners. These emotions include love (shringara), heroism (vira), compassion (karuna), and wonder (adbhuta), among others.

Each raga is associated with a particular time of day, season, or mood, and when performed, it transports the listener into that emotional state. It is this ability to evoke a wide range of emotions that allows musicians to use ragas as a storytelling tool. When these emotions align with mythological themes—whether divine love, the sorrow of separation, or the valor of a hero—the result is an evocative portrayal of these stories through sound.

Mythology in Hindustani Classical Music

In Hindustani classical music, mythology finds its expression through various compositions, many of which are based on devotional themes from the lives of Hindu gods and goddesses. Two primary forms that bring these stories to life are khayal and dhrupad.

The Legend of Lord Krishna and Radha

One of the most common themes in Hindustani music is the story of Krishna, the playful yet divine avatar of Vishnu, and his eternal consort Radha. Their love is a metaphor for the human soul’s longing for union with the divine. Many compositions in khayal and thumri are dedicated to this theme, portraying various aspects of their relationship, from the joyous play of their early love to the sorrow of their separation.

In thumri, for example, one finds compositions that vividly describe Radha waiting for Krishna in the forest, her heart filled with longing. The raga Khamaj, often associated with love and separation, is frequently employed to depict this emotional state. The slow, deliberate unfolding of the raga mirrors Radha’s deep emotions, capturing the pain of yearning and the joy of reunion. Similarly, Raga Yaman, with its serene and gentle quality, is often used to evoke the divine love between Krishna and Radha.

In many instances, the music incorporates bols (lyrics) that are directly inspired by mythological poetry, such as verses from the Gita Govinda, a 12th-century text that narrates Krishna’s love for Radha.

Ragas Depicting Heroism: The Tale of Arjuna

Another significant character from Indian mythology is Arjuna, the heroic warrior of the Mahabharata. His valor and righteousness, as well as his internal struggles with duty and morality, are key themes in the epic. In classical music, the essence of heroism (vira rasa) is captured in ragas that convey strength and power.

One such raga is Raga Bhimpalasi, which is often associated with courage and determination. While Arjuna’s tale may not always be explicitly sung in compositions, ragas that evoke feelings of heroism and struggle are often linked to characters like him. The rhythmic intensity of Raga Bhimpalasi, coupled with its melodic grandeur, mirrors the emotional and moral battles faced by a character like Arjuna in his quest for justice.

Mythology in Carnatic Classical Music

In Carnatic music, storytelling through mythological themes is even more pronounced. Many compositions, or kritis, are direct invocations or narratives of gods and goddesses. Composers like Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri composed a vast repertoire of devotional music, much of which tells stories from Hindu mythology.

Tyagaraja’s Rama Bhakti: The Story of Rama

Tyagaraja, one of the most revered composers of Carnatic music, was a devout follower of Lord Rama. Many of his compositions reflect his deep devotion and are based on episodes from the Ramayana. His kritis are not merely devotional hymns but vivid musical representations of Rama’s life and virtues.

For instance, in the kriti “Endaro Mahanubhavulu,” Tyagaraja praises the greatness of saints who have achieved divine grace through their devotion to Lord Rama. Set in Raga Sri, this composition evokes a sense of reverence and devotion, painting a musical picture of the pious life of devotees and the greatness of Lord Rama.

Another popular composition is “Jagadananda Karaka,” where Tyagaraja glorifies Rama as the one who brings joy and peace to the world. Through the vibrant use of Raga Nattai, this kriti portrays Rama as a majestic and divine figure, emphasizing his role as the protector of the universe.

The Goddess in Carnatic Music: Stories of Durga and Saraswati

Goddess worship is another significant theme in Carnatic music. The goddess Durga, for example, is often depicted in compositions as the fierce protector who vanquishes evil. The raga Shankarabharanam, with its powerful and expansive feel, is often used to sing praises of Durga, capturing both her ferocity and her motherly compassion.

In contrast, Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and arts, is often evoked in more serene and contemplative ragas like Raga Hamsadhwani. The clear, uplifting melodies of this raga reflect Saraswati’s calm demeanor and her role as the bestower of knowledge and creativity. Compositions dedicated to her often ask for blessings in mastering the arts, especially music.

The Ramayana and Mahabharata in Classical Music Performances

Beyond specific compositions, entire performances in Indian classical music can be centered around episodes from the Ramayana or Mahabharata. These stories have been passed down through generations, not only as religious or cultural tales but as vibrant, living traditions that are continually reinterpreted through music.

For example, the episode of Hanuman’s search for Sita in the Ramayana can be brought to life through a performance of Raga Bhairavi, which combines pathos and valor. The gradual build-up in the raga parallels Hanuman’s journey from doubt to determination, culminating in a powerful crescendo that represents his eventual success.

Similarly, the dramatic scenes from the Mahabharata, such as Draupadi’s humiliation in the Kaurava court, can be expressed through Raga Darbari Kanada. This raga, with its slow and solemn progression, perfectly mirrors the gravity of the moment and the emotional weight of Draupadi’s plight.

Musical Instruments as Storytellers

It’s not just the vocal renditions that tell stories in Indian classical music. The instruments themselves play a critical role in conveying mythology. For example, the sitar or veena, with their resonant strings, are often used to evoke celestial or divine themes. These instruments mimic the vocal nuances of ragas, allowing instrumentalists to portray emotions and tell stories without words.

In Hindustani classical music, the sarangi, a bowed instrument known for its deep, soulful sound, is often employed to evoke emotions of longing and devotion, key aspects of mythological storytelling. The mridangam and tabla provide the rhythmic framework that often mirrors the dramatic twists and turns of these tales, their intricate patterns echoing the ebb and flow of the narrative.

Conclusion

Indian classical music, with its deeply emotional ragas and expressive performances, is uniquely positioned to tell the stories of ancient mythology. Whether through devotional compositions, improvised raga renditions, or rhythmic narratives, these stories come to life in a way that resonates with listeners on a profound level.