A recent phenomenon focused on the philosophical lyrics and simple lyrics of the female saint
In the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, there was a tradition of singing the songs of Avudai Akkal during that time. Anjal In weddings the ceremony (when the bride and groom sit on the swing) continues. Among the most sung compositions are ‘Sadguru Swami Mel Oonjal Pada, Saraswatim Ganapatiyam, Adidu Anjal.’ The tune is catchy with folk flavor and adds to the celebratory mood.
Visakha Hari.
Vishakha Hari spoke about this ritual in her discourse on a little-known female saint whose verses contain the essence of philosophy of life and Vedanta.
Held at the Rasika Ranjani Sabha, Vishaka as usual presents her insightful narrative with inspiring songs from Akal’s repertoire, rendering them with expressions in ragas such as Nata, Ahiri and Kalyani.
Avudai Akkal (also known as Ammal) was born 250 years ago in Chengkottai. The ups and downs of life led him to the path of Advaita. With the encouragement of his mother, he learned Sanskrit and Tamil. Married and widowed at an early age, the importance of understanding knowledge (knowledge) and devotion under the guidance of Tiruvisanallur Sridhar Venkatesh Iyaval. He introduced her to Vedanta and in return, he helped the common women achieve it.
In songs like ‘Vedanta Ammanai’, ‘Vedanta Pallu’ and ‘Vedanta Kappal’ he called upon women, especially widows, to break all kinds of shackles and seek true liberation. He used simple metaphors to refer to the greatest realities of life.
Nisha Rajagopalan.
The evening also included a concert by Nisha Rajagopalan, who sang some of Akal’s songs set by violinist RK Sriramkumar, who once again proved his worth as a composer.
Raga Hamirkalyani had the song ‘Brahmanandathai’, while ‘Sachchidananda’ was in Kanad, and ‘Ekanthamayirundhuo’ was in Dwijavanti. The playing of mridang player Arun Prakash kept the mood of the compositions in mind.
An emotional Varli Raag Alapana by Nisha inspired the violinist to take the raga to greater heights in her Uttara before Kirtanam in Varali. Nisha skillfully packed the 75-minute concert with nine songs, many with vocals. It was a commendable team effort.
the author is a trained
classical musician.
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