10.1 Hindu themes in Indian classical music and dance
7 min read•august 15, 2024
Hindu themes deeply influence Indian classical music and dance. These art forms express devotion to deities like and through intricate movements and melodies. They also convey philosophical concepts like bhakti (devotion) and rasa (aesthetic emotions).
Classical arts play a crucial role in Hindu rituals and festivals. Temple ceremonies, weddings, and other rites incorporate music and dance as sacred offerings. Devotional genres like bhajans foster community worship, while dance-dramas enact mythological stories for audiences.
Hindu Deities in Performance Arts
Shiva and Krishna: Divine Dancers and Lovers
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- Shiva is often depicted as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, and his cosmic dance symbolizes the cycles of creation and destruction in the universe
- Shiva's dance represents the dynamic energy that permeates the cosmos and the eternal dance of life and death
- The iconography of Nataraja includes a circle of flames, symbolizing the endless cycle of creation and destruction, and a drum and fire, representing the rhythm of life and the power of transformation
- The love story of and Krishna, representing the human soul's devotion to the divine, is a common theme in classical dance forms like and Kathak
- Radha's unconditional love for Krishna is seen as a metaphor for the soul's yearning for union with the divine
- The playful and romantic interactions between Radha and Krishna, such as the dance, are portrayed through graceful and expressive movements, conveying the joy and intimacy of divine love
Epics and Patron Deities: Ramayana, Mahabharata, Saraswati, and Ganesha
- Episodes from the and epics, featuring deities like Rama, Sita, and Krishna, are frequently portrayed in dance-dramas and musical compositions
- The Ramayana tells the story of Rama's journey to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the power of devotion
- The Mahabharata revolves around the conflict between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, with Krishna playing a central role as a divine advisor and protector
- , the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts, is revered as the patron deity of classical musicians and dancers
- Saraswati is often invoked at the beginning of performances to seek her blessings and inspiration
- She is depicted holding a veena (a stringed instrument), symbolizing her mastery over music and the arts
- , the remover of obstacles, is invoked at the beginning of music and dance performances for an auspicious start
- Ganesha is believed to grant success and remove hurdles in any endeavor, making him an important deity in the context of performance arts
- Many classical music and dance compositions begin with an invocation to Ganesha, known as the "Ganesha Vandana" or "Ganesha Stuti"
Philosophical Concepts in Dance and Music
Bhakti and Rasa: Devotion and Aesthetic Emotions
- The concept of bhakti, or devotional love, is central to many classical music and dance compositions, expressing the performer's and the audience's devotion to the divine
- Bhakti involves surrendering oneself to the divine and expressing love and devotion through music and dance
- Compositions in praise of deities, known as "bhajans" or "kirtans," are infused with the spirit of bhakti and are designed to evoke devotional feelings in the listeners
- The theory of rasa, or aesthetic emotions, is used to evoke specific moods and spiritual states in the audience through stylized gestures, facial expressions, and musical modes
- The nine rasas include love (sringara), joy (hasya), compassion (karuna), anger (raudra), heroism (vira), fear (bhayanaka), disgust (bibhatsa), wonder (adbhuta), and peace (shanta)
- Dancers and musicians use specific techniques, such as facial expressions () and melodic modes (ragas), to evoke these rasas and create a profound emotional experience for the audience
Nada Brahman and Cyclical Time: Sound and Impermanence
- The idea of , or the primordial sound that permeates the universe, is reflected in the use of sacred syllables, mantras, and improvisational techniques in music
- Nada brahman is believed to be the fundamental vibration that underlies all creation, and music is seen as a means to connect with this divine sound
- The use of sacred syllables like "Om" and the recitation of mantras in music are believed to align the performer and the listener with the cosmic vibration
- The cyclical nature of time and the impermanence of the material world are symbolically represented through the repetitive structures and rhythmic patterns in music and dance
- The recurring rhythmic cycles (talas) in music and the repetitive footwork patterns in dance symbolize the endless cycles of creation and destruction in the universe
- The impermanence of worldly existence is conveyed through the fleeting nature of the performance itself, reminding the audience of the transient nature of life
Music and Dance in Hindu Rituals
Temple Rituals and Festivals: Offerings to the Divine
- Classical music and dance are integral parts of temple rituals, such as the daily ceremonies and annual festivals, as offerings to the deities
- Music and dance are considered as "naivedya," or sacred offerings, to the deities, believed to please them and invoke their blessings
- During puja ceremonies, musicians play devotional songs and instrumentalists provide accompaniment, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion
- Dance-dramas, such as the Kathakali of Kerala and the Yakshagana of Karnataka, are performed during temple festivals to enact mythological stories and moral teachings
- These dance-dramas serve as a means of visual storytelling, bringing to life the tales of gods, goddesses, and mythological heroes
- The elaborate costumes, makeup, and stylized gestures used in these dance-dramas add to the visual spectacle and help convey the emotions and character of the roles portrayed
Devotional Music and Rites of Passage: Community and Transition
- Devotional music genres, like bhajans and kirtans, are sung during congregational worship and religious gatherings to foster a sense of community and shared devotion
- Bhajans are devotional songs that praise the deities and express the longing for divine union, often sung in a call-and-response style that encourages participation from the congregation
- Kirtans involve the repetitive chanting of divine names or mantras, creating a meditative and uplifting atmosphere that unites the participants in a shared spiritual experience
- Music and dance are used in rites of passage ceremonies, like weddings and thread ceremonies, to invoke blessings and mark the transition to a new stage of life
- In Hindu weddings, music and dance play a significant role in the various rituals, such as the "sangeet" (musical gathering) and the "bharaat" (groom's procession), adding to the festive and auspicious atmosphere
- The thread ceremony, or "," which marks a boy's initiation into formal education and spiritual learning, includes the chanting of and the performance of sacred music
Devotional Traditions' Influence on Classical Arts
Bhakti Movement and Vaishnavism: Personal Devotion and Krishna Worship
- The Bhakti movement, which emphasized personal devotion over ritual worship, gave rise to new genres of devotional music, like the and the
- The Carnatic kriti, a compositional form developed by Saint Tyagaraja and others, combines devotional lyrics with intricate melodic and rhythmic structures, expressing the composer's deep devotion to the divine
- Hindustani bhajans, popularized by saints like Mirabai and Surdas, are simple, heartfelt songs that express the longing for divine love and the joy of surrender to the divine will
- Vaishnavism, the worship of Vishnu and his avatars, particularly Krishna, inspired the development of dance styles like and , which feature graceful and lyrical movements
- Odissi, a classical dance form from Odisha, originated in the temples of Lord Jagannath (a form of Krishna) and is known for its fluid and sensuous movements that evoke the romance between Radha and Krishna
- Manipuri, a dance style from the northeastern state of Manipur, is deeply influenced by the Vaishnava tradition and is characterized by its gentle, graceful movements and the use of circular patterns that symbolize the eternal love between Krishna and his devotees
Shaivism and Tantra: Rhythmic Complexity and Esoteric Practices
- , the worship of Shiva, influenced the evolution of rhythmically complex and vigorous dance forms, such as the Bharatanatyam and Kathak
- Bharatanatyam, a dance form from Tamil Nadu, is known for its strong, precise footwork and the use of complex rhythmic patterns (jatis) that reflect the energetic and powerful nature of Shiva's dance
- Kathak, a dance style from North India, incorporates fast, intricate footwork and spins that symbolize the dynamic energy of Shiva's cosmic dance
- The Tantric tradition, with its emphasis on the use of sound and movement to harness spiritual energy, shaped the esoteric aspects of classical music and dance, such as the use of and mantras
- Mudras, or symbolic hand gestures, are used in both music and dance to convey specific meanings and to direct the flow of energy in the body
- Mantras, or sacred chants, are incorporated into music and dance performances to invoke spiritual power and to create a meditative atmosphere
Regional Folk Traditions: Assimilation and Synthesis
- Regional folk music and dance traditions, often associated with local deities and festivals, were assimilated into the classical repertoire, creating a rich tapestry of styles and influences
- For example, the Carnatic music tradition has absorbed elements from the Tamil folk music style known as "Villu Paatu," which uses a bow-shaped instrument to accompany narrative songs
- Similarly, the Kathak dance form has incorporated elements from the folk dances of Uttar Pradesh, such as the "Raslila" and the "Charkula," which depict the playful and romantic adventures of Krishna and the gopis (cowherd girls)
- The synthesis of classical and folk traditions has led to the emergence of new styles and genres that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of India
- For instance, the "Sufi Kathak" style, developed by the famous dancer and choreographer Manjari Chaturvedi, combines the spiritual poetry of Sufi saints with the graceful movements and storytelling techniques of Kathak, creating a unique fusion of Islamic and Hindu devotional traditions
Key Terms to Review (35)
Abhinaya: Abhinaya refers to the expressive aspect of Indian classical dance and drama, encompassing the techniques used to convey emotions and tell stories through movement and gestures. It plays a vital role in Indian classical arts, connecting the performer with the audience by translating themes from ancient texts and mythology into visual narratives. The art of abhinaya emphasizes the importance of facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements, allowing performers to communicate complex emotions and characters effectively.
Arati: Arati is a Hindu religious ritual of worship that involves the offering of light to deities, typically through the use of small oil lamps or candles. This practice symbolizes the removal of darkness and ignorance, and it often includes the singing of devotional songs or hymns, creating a profound atmosphere of reverence and connection with the divine. Arati serves as a central element in many religious ceremonies and celebrations, especially during festivals and temple rituals.
Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It takes the form of a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer, discussing complex themes such as duty, righteousness, and the nature of reality.
Bharatanatyam: Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, originating from Tamil Nadu, and is characterized by its expressive storytelling, intricate footwork, and vibrant costumes. This dance form has deep connections to Hindu religious themes, often depicting stories from Hindu mythology and scripture, making it a significant medium for devotion and cultural expression.
Bhava: Bhava refers to the emotional state or mood that is expressed through performance in Indian classical music and dance. It embodies the feelings and sentiments that an artist conveys to their audience, creating a deeper connection through artistry. This concept emphasizes the importance of evoking emotions, such as love, devotion, or sorrow, allowing performers to immerse themselves and their viewers in a spiritual experience.
Carnatic Kriti: A Carnatic kriti is a structured musical composition in the Carnatic style of Indian classical music, typically written in a lyrical format that expresses devotion to a deity or explores philosophical themes. These compositions are significant as they serve as a medium for both musical expression and spiritual exploration, often incorporating intricate rhythms and melodic frameworks that reflect the rich tradition of Carnatic music.
Diwali: Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is celebrated with the lighting of oil lamps, fireworks, feasting, and various rituals that connect to themes of prosperity, joy, and renewal.
Ganesha: Ganesha is a widely revered Hindu deity known as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings, often depicted with an elephant head and a human body. He symbolizes intellect, wisdom, and the importance of overcoming challenges in life, connecting deeply with concepts of divinity and the spiritual journey.
Hindustani Bhajan: A Hindustani bhajan is a devotional song in the Hindustani classical music tradition, often centered around themes of devotion to Hindu deities. These songs are characterized by their lyrical content, which expresses love, reverence, and surrender to God, and they often employ simple yet profound melodies that facilitate emotional connection and spiritual reflection.
Hindustani Music: Hindustani music is a major tradition of Indian classical music that originated in North India, characterized by its improvisational style and use of ragas and talas. This form of music not only emphasizes melody but also deeply integrates spiritual and philosophical themes, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Hinduism.
Kirtan: Kirtan is a form of devotional chanting or singing in Hinduism, where participants sing the names and glories of God, often accompanied by musical instruments. This practice is deeply rooted in bhakti (devotion) and plays a vital role in various devotional traditions, enhancing spiritual connection and communal harmony.
Krishna: Krishna is a major deity in Hinduism, revered as the eighth avatar of Vishnu and known for his role in the epic Mahabharata, particularly in the Bhagavad Gita. He embodies divine love, wisdom, and guidance, influencing various aspects of Hindu philosophy and practice.
Mahabharata: The Mahabharata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient Indian literature, alongside the Ramayana. It narrates the story of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes, intertwining complex themes of duty, righteousness, and morality throughout its narrative.
Manipuri: Manipuri is a classical dance form originating from the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, deeply rooted in Hindu traditions and often associated with the themes of love, devotion, and spirituality. This dance is characterized by graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures, often portraying narratives from Hindu mythology, particularly stories related to the life of Lord Krishna and Radha. It integrates elements of music, dance, and theater, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region while embodying significant Hindu themes.
Mudras: Mudras are symbolic hand gestures used in Hinduism and other Indian traditions that convey specific meanings and emotions. These gestures play a vital role in classical music and dance, enhancing the expressive quality of performances and establishing a deeper connection with the audience. By using mudras, performers can communicate themes, stories, and emotions without words, making them an essential element of artistic expression.
Nada Brahman: Nada Brahman refers to the concept of sound as a manifestation of the ultimate reality in Hindu philosophy, where sound is considered sacred and a pathway to spiritual experience. This idea connects deeply with Indian classical music and dance, where musical sounds and rhythms are viewed not just as art forms, but as expressions of divine truth and a means to connect with the cosmos. The concept underscores the belief that through music and dance, practitioners can reach a state of spiritual enlightenment and unity with the universe.
Natya Shastra: Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts, attributed to the sage Bharata Muni, that encompasses music, dance, and drama. This foundational text provides detailed guidelines on the theory and practice of classical Indian dance and theatre, emphasizing the integration of various art forms and their connection to Hindu philosophy and spirituality.
Navaratri: Navaratri is a major Hindu festival that spans nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This vibrant festival is marked by various rituals, including fasting, music, dance, and elaborate puja ceremonies, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. It highlights the significance of divine feminine energy and showcases the major goddesses worshipped in Hinduism.
Nritta: Nritta refers to the pure dance form in Indian classical dance, characterized by rhythmic footwork and intricate body movements that do not convey any narrative or emotion. This form emphasizes the technical skill and artistry of the dancer, focusing on rhythm and the beauty of movement without storytelling. Nritta serves as a vital component in various classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, showcasing the dancer's ability to interpret rhythm and melody through their physical expression.
Odissi: Odissi is a classical dance form from the Indian state of Odisha, characterized by intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and graceful body movements. This dance style is deeply rooted in Hindu religious themes and often depicts stories from ancient Indian scriptures, showcasing devotion to deities such as Lord Krishna and Goddess Durga.
Puja: Puja is a Hindu ritual of worship that involves offering devotion to deities, often accompanied by prayers, offerings, and ceremonies. This practice is a fundamental aspect of Hindu life, serving as a means to connect with the divine and express reverence, gratitude, and devotion.
Radha: Radha is a significant figure in Hinduism, known primarily as the beloved consort of Lord Krishna. She represents divine love and devotion, symbolizing the ideal relationship between the human soul and the divine. Radha's character is deeply intertwined with various artistic expressions in Indian classical music and dance, embodying themes of longing, devotion, and transcendental love.
Raga: Raga is a melodic framework in Indian classical music that serves as the basis for improvisation and composition. Each raga is characterized by a specific set of notes, a unique arrangement of these notes, and particular emotional qualities or moods that it conveys. The concept of raga is deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural traditions of Hinduism, often reflecting themes of devotion, nature, and the human experience.
Ramayana: The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic that narrates the life and adventures of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal companion Hanuman. This text is not only a foundational story in Hindu culture but also serves as a key source of ethical teachings, illustrating concepts of dharma through its characters' actions and decisions.
Rasa lila: Rasa lila is a traditional performance art form that depicts the playful interactions between Lord Krishna and his female devotees, particularly the gopis (cowherd maidens). This form not only emphasizes the themes of divine love and devotion found in Hinduism but also highlights the rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and drama, making it an essential element in classical Indian arts.
Rasa theory: Rasa theory is a fundamental concept in Indian aesthetics that explains the emotional responses evoked in the audience through artistic expressions, especially in music and dance. It emphasizes the experience of 'rasa', or aesthetic flavor, which engages the viewer's or listener's emotions and senses, creating a deeper connection to the performance. This theory is crucial in understanding how Hindu themes are represented and conveyed in Indian classical art forms, enhancing the spiritual and emotional resonance of the performances.
Saraswati: Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom, and learning. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman playing the veena, a musical instrument, symbolizing her mastery of arts and intellect. Her significance extends beyond worship as she embodies the pursuit of knowledge and the creative spirit, connecting deeply with various aspects of spirituality and cultural expressions.
Shaivism: Shaivism is a major tradition within Hinduism that reveres Shiva as the supreme god and emphasizes his role as both the creator and destroyer of the universe. This tradition highlights various paths to spirituality, focusing on devotion, meditation, and rituals centered around Shiva's divine nature.
Shiva: Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as the 'Destroyer' within the Trimurti, which includes Brahma the 'Creator' and Vishnu the 'Preserver.' He embodies both asceticism and sensuality, reflecting a complex nature that encompasses creation, preservation, and destruction. Shiva's significance extends through various branches of Hindu thought, influencing concepts of God, the understanding of Brahman and Atman, and various forms of devotional expressions.
Tala: Tala is a rhythmic framework used in Indian classical music and dance, consisting of a cycle of beats that forms the foundation for musical compositions and performances. This term is essential as it defines the timing and structure of music, allowing artists to express their creativity within a set rhythmic pattern. In the context of Hindu themes, tala not only provides a basis for musical expression but also connects to the spiritual and cultural significance embedded in performances.
Tansen: Tansen was a legendary musician in the 16th century, often regarded as one of the greatest figures in Indian classical music. He is known for his profound influence on the development of Hindustani classical music and his association with the Mughal court. His compositions and techniques not only enriched the musical traditions of India but also incorporated various Hindu themes, bridging cultural and spiritual aspects through his art.
Tantra: Tantra is a complex spiritual tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the use of rituals, meditation, and physical practices to harness and direct the body's energy towards spiritual enlightenment. It often emphasizes the interplay between the material and spiritual realms, aiming to transcend dualities and achieve a state of unity with the divine. This tradition significantly influences various forms of Indian classical music and dance by incorporating themes of devotion, ritualistic performance, and the embodiment of spiritual energy.
Upanayana: Upanayana is a significant rite of passage in Hinduism, traditionally marking the initiation of a young boy into the study of sacred texts and spiritual knowledge. This ceremony is considered a transformative event, symbolizing the transition from childhood to the stage of a student, where the individual is empowered to learn and practice the spiritual and ethical teachings of Hindu philosophy. It is also associated with the sacred thread ceremony, where the individual receives the yajnopavita, or sacred thread, which symbolizes their new responsibilities and commitments.
Ustad Bismillah Khan: Ustad Bismillah Khan was a legendary Indian musician, renowned for his mastery of the shehnai, a traditional wind instrument. He played a vital role in bringing Indian classical music, particularly Hindustani music, to the forefront of global attention, often blending traditional themes with contemporary expression. His performances were deeply infused with Hindu spirituality and cultural motifs, showcasing how music can reflect and enhance religious devotion.
Vedic mantras: Vedic mantras are sacred utterances found in the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, composed in Sanskrit. These mantras are primarily used in rituals and ceremonies, intended to invoke spiritual power and connect practitioners with the divine. They often consist of hymns that express devotion and reverence to various deities, playing a crucial role in the oral tradition and spiritual practices of Hindu culture.