Dhrupad, a Major Ancient Heritage in the Music from India

In the series of the three podcasts from a meeting with one of the most well-known Dhrupad singers from India namely GUNDECHA BROTHERS, the first part covers the insights about the connection between Dhrupad and Naad Yoga or Yoga of Sound, as well as Dhrupad’s approach towards the concept of BHAVA or expression and RASA or flavor. In India we say, “If it’s not touching your soul, it’s not music,” and this music has this intrinsic power.

This very statement describes the potential of this music from India which has been one of the most ancient forms of music. It was traditionally performed only in temples, as an offering to the deities. That is why even now, the sounds and vibrations of Dhrupad are able to take a listener into a very deep state of silence and serenity.

“The ultimate goal of Dhrupad is to reach a state of thoughtlessness.” Umakant Gundecha

Dhrupad is said to be the oldest existing form of North Indian classical music and it has continued due to the persistence and dedication of different masters who have passed it from generation to generation along the centuries.

Due to its strict adherence to purity, learning Dhrupad is very difficult. It takes years of rigorous and painstaking practice, involving many hours - eight or more - of singing everyday, before a Dhrupad student can reach a stage when he will be ready to perform competently. These early years of total devotion to learning also mean total financial dependence, as the student does not have the time to earn a living. In the past, the teacher took care of the needs of students, so that they could commit themselves completely to the study of music. 


You can also watch part of the talk in Youtube : https://youtu.be/8_s-SiLOjkU