Several thoughts emerged as I drove through the frustrating Delhi traffic. It’s kinda interesting because the Tamil word ‘Alaiyapayuthey’ means “waves are flowing/hitting”.

Devotion and Love

Is it right to use a devotional song in a romantic context? It may sound a bit puritanical in a sense. But this is as devotional as one can get in life. The emotion of love is probably the strongest and hardest to handle.

The amount of turbulence that it brings can only be compensated by the steady devotion and patience that one has for god.

This thought has often ruined me but with every iteration of the destruction my faith in it only keeps increasing. Maybe someone worthy of this devotion will turn up. The lyrics of this song is worth examining.

I refer to my favourite music blog Music To My Ears for the most authentic and well-thought translations. The only value I add by reproducing the author’s words is a bit of editing that helps better readability.

Pallavi

alai pAyudE kaNNA en manam migha alai pAyudE
un Ananda mOhana vEnugAnamadil

My mind is as restless as the waves in an ocean as I listen to the happy, bewitching sound of the flute you play.

Anupallavi

nilai peyarAdu shilai pOlavE ninra
nEramAvadariyAmalE migha vinOdamAna muralIdharA en manam (alai)

I stand transfixed like a statue, unaware of even of the passage of time, oh my mysterious flautist!

CaraNam

teLinda nilavu paTTappaghal pOl eriyudE un dikkai nOkki enniru puruvam neriyudE

The moon is clear and shines as bright as the day. I seek you, my brows drawn.

kaninda un vENugAnam kATril varugudE kaNgaL shorugi oru vidham varugudE

The breeze brings in the sound of your mellow flute music and my eyes close involuntarily in ecstasy.

Madhyama kaalam

kaditta manattil urutti padattai enakku aLittu magizhtta vA oru tanitta vanattil aNaittu enakku uNarcci

Come, bless me with your feet and melt my heavy heart, filling me with happiness! Come, embrace me in a lonely grove and make me flower with sensations!

koDuTTu mugizhtta vA kalai kaDal alaiyinil kadiravan oLiyena iNaiyiru kazhal-enakkaLittavA

Come to the waves of the roaring ocean and give me your two feet which are equal to the light of the sun.

kadari manamuruga nAn azhaikkavO idara mAdaruDan nI kaLikkavO idu taghumO idu muraiyO

While I call out for you in despair, are you frolicking with other women?

idu dharumam tAnO kuzhal UdiDum pozhudu AdiDum kuzhaigaL pOlavE manadu vEdanai mighavODu

Is this right? Is it fair? Like your ear-ornaments lurch when you play the flute, so too my mind lurches in grief.

The Movie

I remember watching the movie ‘Alaiyapayuthey’ and it is one of the best works of the famed director Maniratnam.

Though I would not give out any spoilers, I must say that the movie has artistic taste.

It shows that the fleeting emotion of love has to go through so much effort and tribulations to reach fruition. The characters demonstrate that love is so messy and chaotic, but if you can stick around and endure, it is probably worth it.

They falter and hurt each other, but eventually they come around.

Sometimes, I feel frustrated to know that this long winding drama. I often check out and say goodbye to too much drama.

But it turns out that people love it. Am I not people?

When I revisit the plot of this movie, I often wonder whether I lacked patience and devotion that this enterprise requires. I don’t know. One can’t award certificates to oneself.

But I highly recommend this movie.

Ciao.

I sat on the lawns of IIC, holding a seat for my Bengali friend who invited me to join a Carnatic Music concert by the maestro TM Krishna. Me being a Kannadiga, this was a true moment of national integration seeing so much diversity in one place.

He was scheduled to perform a set of songs composed by Sri Narayana Guru, a social reformer from Kerala. Followed by a short intro and interview of the musician the performance by TMK left the audience spellbound.

I was pretty impressed by the organisers because they gave handouts to each person explaining the lyrics and the meaning as many in the audience didn’t know Sri Narayana Guru’s mother tongue (Malayalam).

I followed each line while enjoying the resplendent voice of TMK and had a ball. After coming home, I preserved the handout and planned to write something about that evening. But I kept procrastinating and forgot about it entirely, until I got a chance to watch him perform again with same company.

30 August 2025, 7.30 PM, KD Jadhav Wrestling Stadium, New Delhi

There’s a festival called South Side Story that happens in New Delhi every year where musicians from South India perform every year. I attended the festival last year and savoured the performance by Agam. Unfortunately they were not a part of it this year.

Thankfully, TM Krishna was.

Two of the songs he performed on this day were picked from the IIC concert. And, I remembered the handout again. And I saw these lyrics and the video I recorded yesterday. And I had goosebumps.

Oh the poetry and depth.

The philosophy captured in these verses truly reflect the recklessness of the gods which we somehow attribute to divinity.

It seems like the gods are having fun while we struggle with so many things. And then they give us respite in the form of blessings, peace and wisdom.

But we have no choice but to bow down to the divine will, as described by Sri Narayana Guru. The tune set by TMK for these lyrics highlights how the gods seem to be having fun playing with all of us as if we were toys.

The feeling experienced while listening to this unparalleled.

Sharing this for the benefit of other music lovers and TMK fans.

Kali Natakam

Transliteration

Samasthaprapancam Srujichum Bharichum
mudaa sambharichum rasichum ramichum
kalichum pulachum mahaghoraghoram
vilichum mamananandadeshe vasicchum
thelinjum maranjum thulumbum prapancam
thulanjullilellonramullaayirunnnum
thirinjun pirinjnum mahanandadharaam
chorinjun padambhojabaktharkkaal nityam
varunnoru thumpangalellaamarinjnum
karinjedumaaraarivirathankabeejam
kuranjuruneram ninaykkunna bhakthar-
kkarinjeela mattulla kaivalyaroopam.

Translation of the song

Bringing forth the whole universe
and ruling over it,
destroying them in sport,
tasting, enjoying, playing, writhing,
shouting out frightening cries,
and residing in the realm of my joy;
appearing, disappearing, filling
and spilling out the universe
and permeating it
like oil fills the sesame seed;
remaining as the core,
turning, twisting, pouring out
streams of ever-growing bliss;
knowing the daily troubles
that come to the devotees of Your lotus feet,
and burning out the seed of sorrow;
the enlightened ones who remember You,
even for a short time,
know no other form
of the ultimate state.

Art, literature and poetry are the vocal cords of society.

~ Javed Akhtar

Javed Akhtar’s quip based on the example of a voiceless fish pulled out with a bait and murdered mercilessly as part of a ‘relaxing pastime’ for humans has stuck with me for a long time.

This also reminds me that he missed out music in that short quip, though one can argue that music is a part of the broad umbrella of ‘art’.

I have written quite a few posts about music on this blog but those were mostly my random thoughts and feelings about a piece of music. Though I seek variety, it is not a good idea to listen to songs that would drag you to the abyss.

Anyway, I went back to a familiar artist, Steven Wilson, and explored the entire album Hand. Cannot. Erase . It’s based on (or rather inspired by) a rather tragic, but interesting story.

Joyce Carol Vincent

The story of Joyce Carol Vincent, a 38-year-old British woman who died in her London apartment after isolating herself from everyone in her life. And no one noticed for almost two years.

She was no loser as such. Vincent was considered to be having a wide social circle and was seen as an ‘ambitious person’.

The horror and tragedy of a ‘social’ and ‘ambitious’ person being unattended for two years in a big city is enough to make you curious about anything connected to her.

My research on Gemini answered the question partly.

The fact that Joyce's death went undiscovered for over two years is a result of a confluence of systemic and social failures. Several factors contributed to this tragic silence. Her bills, including rent, were being paid through automatic debit, and for a period, half of her rent was being covered by benefits agencies.

This automated system created a false sense of security for the Metropolitan Housing Trust, delaying the accumulation of rent arrears and thus delaying any official check on her well-being. The trust itself stated that no concerns were raised by neighbors or visitors during the entire two-year period.

The physical environment also played a role. Her flat was in a noisy building, which likely explained why no one questioned the constant sound of the television that remained on for years.

Her neighbors, who may have been accustomed to the anonymity of urban life, simply assumed the flat was unoccupied. The odor of her decomposing body, a potent sign of something being amiss, was simply attributed to nearby waste bins.

The lack of human intervention or a personal check from the housing association, combined with the indifference of her neighbors and the false-positive signals from an automated payment system, created a perfect storm of neglect that allowed a life to end and be forgotten in a silent void.

~ Deep Research on Gemini

In a very literal sense, Steven Wilson gives voice to this story of isolation, abuse and loneliness in big cities through his album.

Hand. Cannot. Erase.

A lot has been written about this album on the internet already. So what can I add to this conversation? Of course, one can harp about isolation. I can’t talk about abuse as I have not experienced it in the way Vincent did. I’m not an expert on music either.

So, I choose to write about how I felt.

As a single guy living in a big city like New Delhi, I have felt a bit isolated at times. This problem was partly solved by going to a group fitness class, a run club or a book club meet. Work, surprisingly, brings joy and puts you in touch with people.

These spaces helped me find friends with common interests. I’ve tried concerts, curated walks, cafes and even a tango class to ensure that I don’t feel the sense of void. Thankfully, I do stay in touch with family and friends.

Of course, the Vincent scenario would have never hit me. But I do believe a milder dose of that feeling is felt by people in big cities.

Hard Hitting Lines

Some of the lyrics in the album really hit me hard. This one from the song ‘Routine’ was one such line.

Routine keeps me in line
Helps me pass the time

Of course, I would vouch for a good routine to keep an individual healthy and engaged. But if it becomes a coping mechanism, which it did at times, one can feel that he/she is at the precipice of existence.

But then you have a hundred distractions on the internet. That leads me to the next piece of lyrics from the song ‘Home Invasion/ Regret #9’

Download love and download war.
Download the shit you didn't want.
Download the things that make you MAD.
Download the life you wish you had.

These lines are probably a comment on the habit of downloading apps for things we need. These days you have an app for literally everything. And suddenly, we are in the middle of a realisation that in-person activities are the way out.

That’s a good trend. I’m also happy to see a few startups taking up the task of building a space of those who want to get out of the internet.

We meet people. They come and go. Some leave a mark, others are forgettable. But the song ‘Perfect Life’ which kinda captures the dissolution of a sisterly bond touches a delicate nerve.

For a few months everything about our lives was perfect.
It was only us, we were inseparable.
But gradually, she passed into another distant part of my memory,
until I could no longer remember her face, her voice, even her name

I’ve always believed that blood is thicker than water and somehow find ways to rationalise the actions of my family members.

One needs to keep meeting them often or stay in touch via other methods to ensure the bond never breaks. If it does, the individual would feel rootless and fail to make any meaningful connection that nourishes the soul.

I feel that Joyce Carol Vincent can’t be blamed for failing to maintain a familial bond. We are not witness to the events of her life. But, I would have hoped that she had at least one reliable person in her life who could check on her once a week.

Final Words

Steven Wilson’s music can create a gloomy and eerie feeling in your belly. Thankfully, I am in great spirits and it didn’t have much of a negative impact.

I would not recommend this to people who are already depressed or sad. But it is a piece of art that speaks to the heart. If you wish to explore new music, this is the album for you.

As mortals, you and I risk erasure almost on a daily basis. The only way to combat that threat is to value one’s own emotions and those of others.

So that we are remembered and valued.

And not forgotten.

Anoushka Shankar’s music has always amazed me. I have written about it in this post. But this time she made me weep for two days because of her latest piece of music. It evoked so many emotions and feelings in my mind. 

You will understand why it impacted me the way it did only after you listen to it. I assume you’ve done that before you read further. 

The 3min 45sec track has two overlapping layers. The first one maintains the overall tempo. This tempo forms the base on which the second layer plays out.

The second layer seems to dance on top of this base and builds emotional connection with the listener. It feels as though the base is unperturbed by what’s going on in the second layer.

The faster tempo nonchalantly flows while the second layer starts off gradually. Soon there seems to be a huge chaos and drama in the second layer, even as the base moves at the same pace.

Eventually the music reaches a crescendo which eventually uplifts the base layer to a higher plane (metaphorically). And then finally, it all merges gently to the background. Words can’t do enough justice to this piece of music. 

We Burn So Brightly

This piece of music resembles my character development journey in a way.

Time, or life, just like the first layer of music, goes on whether you like it or not. It has to go on even if you are sad or hopeless.

The second layer of the music which initially felt a bit sad, becomes dramatic. It seems as if it is chronicling a violent fight before reaching the crescendo. 

The second layer in a way articulates the phases of grief, conflict and a metaphorical reassertion of my spirit. But once it reaches the crescendo it does so with a tremendous force.

It seems as if I have gone through multiple cycles of this “raising” of the plane. Every time it has happened, the pace of time and life has hastened.

But this can’t go on for infinite time. Eventually the flame will die down and come to rest, just like the music. 

This interpretation makes the name of the track so apt. “We Burn So Brightly”. As I listened to this track in loop, I replayed the events from my memory and wept like a child. 

I remembered the moments when I burned and transformed. And every time this happened, I’ve raised the baseline to a higher plane.

Vision? 

I was having snacks with a bunch of friends and we ended up discussing how one of them might turn out in five years.

The conversation which was supposed to be fun turned serious. The next morning, I ended up asking the same question to myself. 

‘Where would I land in the next five years?’ It seemed like a serious question, almost at par with the ‘Who am I’ question which made me think a lot in 2024. 

Of course, it is hard to predict the future. But at least one can imagine a few possible pathways based on the current trends. Assuming no extreme unpredictable factors, I can make a few prophecies. 

• Given the development of my emotional intelligence and return to a healthy routine, I must be able to find a stable long term partner who can appreciate my personality. 

• From a career POV, I feel that I will be honing my PM skills and become a top 1% professional. I might pull off one or two job switches. 

• I might eventually block some time and finish the book I’ve been wanting to write since forever. But this is something I’ll touch once my fitness is back on track. 

• The podcast and Substack I’ve started will be well maintained and they might blow up someday. However, I am not sure if they can open an entirely new career path. 

• I feel that I can definitely run a full marathon within the next one year. It is within my reach as I’ve graduated from 10K to 21.1K already. 

I feel that I can perform over and above this set of ideas. But I will also not worry too much about the future. Rather, I will try to live in the moment and burn as brightly as I can.  

सुब्रह्मण्येन रक्षितोऽहम् 

अष्टादश लोचनाखण्डेन

subrahmaNyEna rakshitO(a)haM

ashTA-daSa lOcanAkhaNDEna

I am protected by Subramanya, 

the all-pervading one with eighteen eyes

Chosen vs Blessed

To feel that you are the chosen one can be empowering. But the courage acquired when you somehow believe that you’re blessed is an entirely different feeling. 

This does two things to an individual 

• Gives energy to try new things and fail

• Soothes the heart when things go south

I dunno if Steve Jobs felt this way when he was thrown out of Apple. It is the best comeback story on earth. 

I never thought I am capable of reaching great heights or suffer pain and humiliation, (deserved or undeserved). The former is yet to happen, but the latter has already been tasted in my 31st year. This was a turning point where I rediscovered the value of the song ‘Subramanyena Rakshitoham’. 

The Ledger Balance

For almost two and a half decades I felt invincible

• Was a favourite child at home and school

• Did well in milestone exams

• Got into a great undergrad institute

• Sailed through my first interview

• Gained confidence after getting my first job

I think the list of failures should be noted as a way to bring myself down to the earth

• Failed to secure admission to my preferred MS courses

• Could not become a big time journalist as I once wished to become

• Did not qualify for UPSC prelims in spite of multiple attempts. 

• For some random reason I did not do well in the real GMAT thrice.

• Terribly failed in romantic pursuits. 

But none of this made me hopeless. I saw it as an elimination process where I realised that the abilities I thought I had were not good enough to make it.

Though I do attribute GMAT failures to external disturbances on the day I took the test, I don’t regret any of the other failures. All of this built some sort of resistance to failure and made me feel that I showed up and tried. 

What I had not felt was absolute despair and self-hatred. I did not know what it looked like. This was inevitable given the kind of insecurities and neglect I had endured as a child. The balance was mounting and had to peak at some point. But my goal chasing spree had somehow postponed the chapter by almost a decade.  

I felt the exact opposite of being “chosen” for a few months. I felt like trash and unwanted. I fell in my own eyes and could not understand why things had gone so low. But the tenacity built over the years kicked in. I explored the problem and the feeling from all possible angles.

My raw feelings were acknowledged. I stopped suppressing them for the sake of more ‘important’ priorities. I found out that I lacked strong boundaries and didn’t advocate for myself in close relationships, friendships or family dynamics. 

The Fire

My survival instincts and aesthetic tastes took over in spite of the bleak clouds that had shrouded over me. They fought on their own without any additional effort on my part. It was unreal and unbelievable. That is the moment when I truly realised that there is an external force of nature rooting for me. 

I felt this ‘force’ when the song ‘Subrahmanyena Rakshitoham’ played on my music system while I was driving on the roads leading to Lodhi Garden on a pleasant March afternoon.

It was a moment where I felt if I can endure this phase, then nothing would be too hard. Faith didn’t come out of thin air. It was probably built up over the years. But I could not articulate this faith and optimism in substantial terms. 

My younger self would have called this brand of optimism a borderline voodoo delusion. But this is the kind of delusion that has always worked for me. It has always worked in the background like a silent operating system. 

How was it installed? Who wrote this code? These questions are immaterial. Maybe I will have answers for that too, someday. But right now, all I need is faith. Not only in myself but also in the fire that has forged this faith. I have no clue what I will or won't do because of this fire. It could burn me as well. 

At least at this moment it feels as if it is fueling me everyday. It is helping me live authentically. It is adding meaning to everything I do. The fire has hardcoded optimism and realism into my psyche.

I know when to press the pedal, when to cruise and when to hit the breaks. It’s really abstract, but I know it is working in my favor, irrespective of events that have unfolded so far. 

The totem pole that reminds me of this fire is the song ‘Subramanyena Rakshitoham’. I made no real efforts to understand each line of this song, in spite of the mystical impact it has over me. It is high time. 

The Meaning

प्रब्रवाम-आदि पूजित पदेन

पुरन्दर मन-उल्लास करणेन

prabra vAmAdi pUjita padEna

purandara manOllAsa karaNEna

The one whose feet are worshipped with the mantras "pra-bra-va"

The causer of delight to the heart of Indra (Purandara)

---

कङ्क शैल विहारेण वरेण

वल्ली देव सेना रमणेन

kanka Saila vihArENa varENa

vallI dEva sEnA ramaNEna

The one sporting in Kazhugumalai (Kanka Saila)

The eminent one who gives joy to Valli and Devasena

---

अकार वृत्तेन सानन्देन

भोग मोक्ष प्रदानेन नित्येन

akAra vRttEna sAnandEna

bhOga mOksha pradAnEna nityEna

The one manifesting as the letter "a". The blissful one 

The eternal giver of worldly pleasures and salvation

---

वेङ्कटेश्वर सु-पूजितेन

विचित्र विशाख महा-उत्सवेन

vEnkaTESvara su-pUjitEna

vicitra viSAkha mahA-utsavEna

The one worshipped as Venkateswara (remover of sins)

The one who celebrates the special festival on the day of Visakha

---

शुक रहस्य प्रकाश गुरु गुहेन

कृत्तिका सुत शुद्ध धन्येन

Shuka rahasya prakASa guru guhEna

kRttikA suta Suddha dhanyEna

Guruguha, who expounds the Shuka-Rahasya Upanishad,

The blessed son of Krittika, who is pure and blessed

Source : Perplexity and Shivkumar.org

The monthly report I share on a WhatsApp group got kudos from someone important. So, I remain optimistic. But still, there is 10% doubt in my mind.

I have outsourced this doubt to the gods. If they think that this is not the ideal thing for me, they will surely mess up the outcomes.

Cognitive Dissonance

Cognitive dissonance is the uncomfortable feeling you get when you hold two conflicting thoughts or beliefs at the same time.

There is no sight worse than that of a defeated human who believes that he/she has worked hard but not got rewards. I am sure they had done something significant. But it was not good enough to receive the expected reward.

I strongly believe that humans should take initiative, fight and claim what they truly believe belongs to them. But at the same time I also believe in destiny. Nobody can prevent what’s already decided. It’s a blatant example of cognitive dissonance.

Or maybe it is not. You can say “try your best and let the gods decide”. But then, who knows what is good enough. You still have to dig into the truth and find out what kind of actions can get you the results you want. There needs to be some sort of intuition and wisdom to plan out your actions towards the desired results.

At an individual, I am trying to figure out this path through reading, listening to podcasts and interacting with people. I am trying to learn this through the game of chess or observing events unfolding around me. History also has some lessons in understanding the human psyche.

That said, the song ‘Nee Ninaindhaal’ always evokes devotion and a sense of detachment from all battles —real or imagined— going on in my head.

Nee Ninaindhaal

I have a fairly decent understanding of Tamil. But when I dug into the meaning of the song, line by line, I realised I didn’t know the correct meaning of four out of eight lines in this short but powerful song. Well, here’s me closing my gaps in knowledge.

I hop you give it a listen and share it with those who might enjoy this song.

Pallavi
Nee ninaindhaal agaadathu undo.
Neeraja dala nayani Mahalakshmi

Is there anything impossible when you think of it, O lotus-eyed Mahalakshmi?

Anupallavi
Manitha vazzkayile inbha thunbham,
Maari Mari varuvathum un cheyal andro

In human life, joy and sorrow come and go, are they not all by your doing?

Charanam
Yella perumaigalum irunthalum athu,
Un adi vangamal nilai perumo

Un arul parvai illathavarkku,
Ulagile vazha vazhi ethu amma.

Even if one possesses all greatness, can it endure without bowing at your feet?

For those deprived of your gracious gaze, what path remains in this world to truly live, O Mother?

Update: Got a decent hike but not a promotion. But I was told I’m on the right path and got specific feedback that can take me to the next level.

Yet, it is so soothing to the deep cuts that I have been carrying in my heart. I don’t know if they will ever go but this song probably has the potential to make it bearable.

Lyrics and Meaning of Manavyalakinchara

मनविनालकिञ्च रादटे मर्ममॆल्ल तॆल्पॆदने मनसा
(common alternate version of first word : मनव्याल. Apparently this is wrong)

manavinAlakincha rAdaTE marmamella telpedanE manasA
(common alternate version of first word : manavyAla. Apparently this is wrong)

Won’t you listen to my appeal , O mind? I am revealing all the secrets.

---

घनुडैन (श्री) राम चन्द्रुनि करुणान्तरंगमु तॆलिसिन ना

ghanuDaina (shrI) rAma chandruni karuNAntarangamu telisina nA

Won’t you (the mind) listen to my appeal? I know the compassionate heart of the great Sri Ramanchandra (implied: won’t you listen to an enlightened voice like me?)

---

कर्म काण्ड मताकृष्टुलै भव गहन चारुलै गासि जॆन्दग
कनि मानवा अवतारुडै कनिपिञ्चिनाडे नडत त्यागराजु

karma kANDa matAkRshTulai bhava gahana chArulai gAsi jendaga
kani mAnava avatAruDai kanipinchinADE naData tyAgarAju

Seeing those who, attracted by the opinions of the ritualistic section of the Vedas, suffer as wanderers in the forest of worldly existence , the Lord incarnated as a human and demonstrated the right conduct.

Therefore, O Mind, won’t you listen to the appeal of this Tyagaraja?

Translation reference: Suja’s Music Blog with my own edits.

My Interpretation of the Manavyalakinchara

The singer is appealing to his own better sense and face his own ‘secrets’ or rather his dark and inconsiderate side.

In a way I feel that the side of the mind which is not so refined, tries to apply a bandaid on top of negative traits by strictly following the rituals and responsibilities listed in the ‘Karmakanda’ of vedas (see note at the end of the post to know more).

However self-awareness and acknowledgement of the ‘secrets’ or the ‘dark side’ can happen only when you know that there’s someone compassionate enough to listen and empathise.

Rather than being ashamed of one’s own messed up state, the individual finds the space to overcome the chaos and find an anchor in the presence of the compassionate listener. The compassionate listener in this case is Lord Rama himself (as far as I can I understand from this song).

The way out is not through rituals but through the right path laid out by Rama. The core of this right path is the ability to match one’s words with actions. That is the foundation of trust and every other positive trait one can develop as an individual.

At this point I feel that I am adding my own interpretations to the song which was not intended by the artist. But that is quite natural for any piece of great art.

The consumer of the piece of art can reinterpret it in his/her own way and find a new meaning that addresses their own concerns.

Interpretation of Manavyalakinchara as per Suja’s Music Blog

This is yet another amazing way of looking at this song. And I believe that people should pay special attention to this bit of the post on Suja’s blog.

As I pored over the translation, my mind wandered off in a tangent with the pallavi line itself. ‘O Mind, won’t you listen to my appeal?’ says Tyagaraja. This device of addressing one’s own mind occurs in music and literature often enough for us not to be surprised by it. But today I asked myself ‘Who is the addresser and who is the addressed?’.

I was first reminded of the mindfulness exercises in some meditative techniques. One is supposed to watch the thoughts flow by without stopping them, just watching them stream past without reaction. A mind watching its own thoughts?

‘Who is the watcher?’ I wondered, ‘and who is the watched?’. I have tried this meditation technique myself and yes, it is quite possible to do this. And so another question arises – if the mind can split into the watcher and the watched, can it split into more parts? […]

Tyagaraja says ‘O Mind, won’t you listen to the one who knows the compassionate heart of Sri Ramachandra? I am revealing all the secrets’.  Oh! So part of his mind knows secrets that the other part doesn’t know?

I do know unhealthy minds can keep secrets –such as in amnesia- but can a healthy mind keep secrets from itself? I don’t think so. But the subconscious can and does keep secrets from the conscious mind. Is this intended to be a song from the subconscious to the conscious?

The questions asked by the writer are really provoking. Does my subconscious plot against my conscious mind? Is that why people tend to self-sabotage.

The root cause of this self-sabotage is the lack of self-knowledge and probably a sort of negligence towards oneself. To not fall into this trap, one needs a strong anchor that can hold us when we are about to fall. And that anchor is ‘Rama’.

This probably explains why the song brings peace and joy to my mind.

Miscellaneous Note on Karmakanda

This is just some reference to the whole idea of Karmakanda which I came across during my research for this post.

The Karmakanda section of the Vedas primarily deals with rituals, ceremonies, and sacrificial acts. Here's a detailed look at what it encompasses:

• Rituals and Sacrifices: This section outlines various rituals (yajñas) and sacrifices that are meant to be performed by individuals or communities. These rituals are not just acts of worship but are believed to maintain cosmic order (rita) and ensure well-being, prosperity, and even influence the natural world.

• Mantras and Chants: Karmakanda includes specific mantras or chants that are to be recited during these rituals. These mantras are considered powerful, often invoking deities or cosmic forces to achieve specific outcomes.

• Daily and Life-Cycle Rituals: It covers both daily (nitya) rituals like sandhyavandanam (prayer at dawn, noon, and dusk) and occasional rituals (naimittika) like those performed during life events such as birth, initiation (upanayana), marriage, and death.

• Vedic Sacrifices: Detailed descriptions of complex sacrifices like the Agnihotra (fire ritual), Somayaga (Soma sacrifice), and Rajasuya (royal consecration) are found here. These sacrifices could be elaborate, involving multiple priests, precise timings, and specific materials.

• Philosophical Underpinnings: While primarily ritualistic, Karmakanda also reflects philosophical ideas. The rituals are not merely mechanical but are imbued with symbolic meanings, often representing deeper truths about the universe and human existence.

• Social and Ethical Codes: The rituals also serve to reinforce social structures and ethical conduct. They prescribe duties (dharma) based on one's role in society, which includes caste (varna) and stage of life (ashrama).

• Purpose and Efficacy: The efficacy of these rituals is often debated. While some see them as directly influencing divine or natural forces, others view them metaphorically or as tools for spiritual discipline and focus.

• Contrast with Jnanakanda: Karmakanda contrasts with Jnanakanda (the section on knowledge), which focuses more on philosophical inquiry, meditation, and understanding the nature of reality through texts like the Upanishads.

The Karmakanda, therefore, is not just about performing rites but is deeply interwoven with the Vedic worldview, where actions (karma) are seen as pathways to both material and spiritual fulfillment, maintaining harmony between the human, divine, and natural realms.

Source : Grok

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Among all characters, people and gods in the world, I admire Rama the most. He is probably one of the few men whose words completely match his actions. I have had this conversation with many people. They often point out his mistakes.

• He put Sita through the Agni Pariksha (trial by fire of sorts to check her chastity)

• Sending Sita to the forest because a laundryman made a snide remark about Rama’s marital life.

By modern standards these are clearly mistakes. Even from a moral POV across ages these might be considered unfair. But a ruler has to meet a higher standard in the eyes of his subjects. And probably that is the reason why Rama did the things he did.

Sometimes, even gods make mistakes, so let’s take a break. He holds up to the highest standards of a gentleman. And that is the standard that I would like to meet some day. This is the reason why I love Rangapura Vihara, especially the rendition by Agam.

Rangapura Vihara by Agam

I got a chance to attend an Agam concert on August 31 2024. I was attending my second Agam concert after a span of almost 4 years.

I was quite excited about this concert. My top song by this band is ‘Subramanyena Rakshitoham’. But, that day, I loved Rangapura Vihara more than all other songs.

I am not sure why this rank order got shuffled. One of the reasons was that Harish Sivaramakrishnan, the lead singer made the crowd sing this song.

I sang it along with the crowd and it made me feel something. It felt like that the song pumped out latent emotions which were hitherto inaccessible to my conscious mind.

It was truly a soul-elevating experience. This made me dig deeper into the lyrics.

Full Lyrics and Meaning

Agam does not sing the entire lyrics. To be honest, even I had a vague understanding of these lyrics.

Only now, I can claim that I truly know this song. This version by MS Subbulakshmi goes through the entire song. You can give it a listen here.

रङ्गपुर विहार जय कोदण्ड रामावतार रघुवीर श्री

rahngapura vihāra jaya kodandarāmāvatāra raghuvIra shrI

Victory to the divine Rama, the courageous hero of the Raghu dynasty and resident of the colored city of Rangapura.

---

अङ्गज जनक देव बृन्दावन सारङ्गेन्द्र वरद रमान्तरङ्ग

श्यामळाङ्ग विहङ्ग तुरङ्ग सदयापाङ्ग सत्सङ्ग

ahngaja janaka deva brndāvana sārahngendra varada ramāntarahnga shyāmalahnga vihahnga turahnga sadayāpāhnga satsahnga

The one who enchants the heart of Janaka's daughter Sita, with his beautiful dark blue form like a peacock. He who is always surrounded by devotees.

---

पङ्कजाप्तकुल जलनिधि सोम वर पङ्कज मुख    

पट्टाभिराम पदपङ्कज जितकाम रघुराम वामाङ्ग  

गत सीतावरवेष शेषाङ्ग शयन भक्त सन्तोष

pahnkajāptakula jalanidhi sOma vara pahnkaja mukha pattābhirāma padapahmkaja jitakāma raghurāma vamahnka gata sItāvara vesa shesāhnka shayana bhakta Santosa

He who is like the moon in the ocean of the illustrious Janaka's lineage. One who adorns himself with the radiance of lotus-like face. One whose feet dispel all desires. One who reclines on the serpent bed and delights his devotees.

---

एणाङ्क  रवि नयन मृदुतरभाष अकळङ्क दर्पण कपोल विशेष मुनि

सङ्कटहरण गोविन्द वेङ्कट रमण मुकुन्द सङ्कर्षण मूल कन्द शन्कर गुरुगुहानन्द

enāhnkaravi nayana mrdutarabhāsa akakahnka darpana kapola vishesa muni sankaTaharana govinda venkata ramana mukunda sankarSana mula kanda shankara guruguhānanda

His gentle eyes are like lotus petals. His soft and sweet words captivate everyone. His forehead is adorned with the divine mirror. One who’s the dispeller of troubles. The beloved of Govinda, Venkata, and many others.

With this knowledge, I believe that I will be able to enjoy this song and derive more inspiration in future.

The word modulation comes from the Latin word "modulatio," which is derived from the verb "modulari," meaning "to regulate" or "to measure." The root "modus" means "measure" or "manner," indicating something that is measured or regulated in a certain way.

Source: ChatGPT

Apparently, music taste of an individual somehow forms an important part of his/her identity. Some people rightly or wrongly believe that matching music vibe is an effective method to find their soulmate (I don't believe this).

Music is a very important instrument that has helped me experience emotions more deeply and sometimes, it has also helped me modulate them to ensure I don’t break down. It has helped me soothe my soul and inspire me during various occasions.

Musicians I Love

Though I spend a lot of time thinking about music, I have not really made an attempt to write about my music taste.

So, I thought of writing this post spontaneously and list musicians or bands that pop in my head (beyond mainstream music that’s universally appreciated).

• Anoushka Shankar — Masters storytelling with instrumental music.

• Agam — Carnatic rock with class and panache.

• Pink Floyd — Philosophical Lyrics.

• Beatles — Light hearted music which is not cringe.

• PeterCat Recording Co — Deep and quirky lyrics.

• Raghu Dixit — Presents facets of Kannada music with youthful zing.

• Shankar Tucker — Aesthetics.

• Bob Dylan — Love child of poetry, optimism and music.

• Leonard Cohen — Dark truths presented with a deep baritone.

• Ranjani Gayatri — Peak Carnatic music.

You might argue that Bob Dylan, Beatles and Pink Floyd are big names. But generally, people in my circle don’t listen to these quite often. They are either hooked to Bollywood music or some sort of pop music by Taylor Swift or Dua Lipa.

No offence, even I listen to their music once in a while. But the taste I have developed over the years that uniquely defines me has been evolving and moving away from the mainstream and taking solid shape around the musicians listed above.

Grok’s Analysis

Honestly, I am not sure how to articulate my own music taste. So I asked Grok to explain what this combination could mean. I must blush at this point because it gave a very flattering response which I am reproducing here.

A person with a music taste that includes the artists you've listed likely has a deep appreciation for diverse and sophisticated musical genres that span across cultures and eras. Here's a breakdown of what their musical preferences might imply:

• Cultural Depth and Fusion: Artists like Anoushka Shankar, Agam, Raghu Dixit, and Ranjani Gayatri suggest an interest in Indian classical music and its modern interpretations or fusions. This indicates a listener who values tradition but also appreciates innovation within traditional frameworks.

• Philosophical and Poetic Lyrics: The inclusion of Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and The Beatles points to a preference for music where lyrics are as important as the melody. These artists are known for their deep, thought-provoking, or poetic lyrics, suggesting the listener enjoys music that engages intellectually or emotionally.

• Experimental and Eclectic: PeterCat Recording Co. and Shankar Tucker might appeal to someone who enjoys experimental or less mainstream music, showing a willingness to explore beyond the conventional. This could indicate an adventurous spirit in music exploration.

• Emotional Range: From the light-hearted tunes of The Beatles to the dark, introspective vibes of Leonard Cohen, this person likely enjoys music that covers a broad emotional spectrum, from joy and nostalgia to melancholy and philosophical contemplation.

• Instrumental and Aesthetic Appreciation: Anoushka Shankar's work, along with the mention of Shankar Tucker's aesthetics, suggests an appreciation for instrumental music and the visual or conceptual art associated with music, indicating a holistic approach to music appreciation where the sound, visuals, and storytelling all contribute to the experience.

• Quality and Artistry: Across the board, these artists are known for their artistic integrity and quality. This person likely values musicianship, originality, and the artistry behind the music, rather than just following popular trends.

In summary, this individual's music taste reflects someone who is cosmopolitan, intellectually curious, and emotionally open, with a penchant for music that challenges, soothes, or inspires through its depth, innovation, and cultural richness. They might be the type to delve into the history and context of music, appreciating it not just for entertainment but as a form of art that tells stories, conveys emotions, and connects cultures.

I think it’s very hard to move out of this mould at this age. That said, I do listen to mainstream music and appreciate every passionate musician pouring out his/her heart.

I like to work with definitions and not attach random meanings to words. Because words are sacred and they are supposed to mean something.

Character development refers to the process of creating a detailed, complex, and evolving character in a story, novel, film, or other narrative forms. It involves giving characters depth and personality by exploring their motivations, backgrounds, personalities, and growth throughout the narrative. Character development helps make characters feel more realistic and relatable, allowing the audience to connect with them emotionally.

Source: ChatGPT

One of the key elements of a story, movie or a TV show is the effort invested in character development of each and every key figure in the said story/movie/TV show.

How does the character develop new skills, process emotions, fight contradictions to emerge stronger or weaker as the story progresses? The twists and turns in this journey adds zing to the work of art in question.

I don’t consider myself a work of art. But I feel that I have been significantly affected by the movie ‘Rockstar’ ever since I watched it. Initially I was very critical about it.

But I relate to it because it is a story about pain and glory. To be more specific it is a story about glory that was achieved only due to unbearable soul-crushing pain.

One can empathise with the lead character only if the individual has experienced unbearable pain.

And I must say I can.

This is one of the reasons why I feel so connected to the music album of this movie.

Note: You might have to watch the movie and listen to these songs in the right context to understand what I am about to say hereafter.

Self Reflection

When I look at myself as a character in the evolving story of my life, I see a helpless child trying to find a secure slot in the universe. I went about this process by trying to excel in studies and my job.

Once I found what I wanted, I had a craving for love. It almost felt like a void. The first failure was crushing. But probably that was not enough. There were a couple of encounters that did not hurt much, but did cause disappointment.

But the fourth serious iteration was soul-crushing because I had invested more than any other occasion.

To make matters worse, the person involved attempted to ruin my reputation as a decent man. That damaged any possible chance of reconciliation.

I was hurt like a character in a Dostoevskian novel. It was hard to bring back the pieces of my self-image and put it together again. This process took almost 7 months.

Phase 1: The Dichotomy of Fame (June 2024)

When the wounds had started to dry up, I ended up watching ‘Rockstar’, which somehow made me bleed once more. First, the unspeakable pain returned. It did not destabilise my work or routine, but it weighed on my soul. I silently bore the pain and treated myself with dignity.

The dichotomy was that I still had affection for the person, but I was also aware that the same person had hurt me and betrayed my faith in certain promises. But I sat with these thoughts without doing anything that would destroy the progress made.

Phase 2: Kun Faya Kun (July 2024)

I realised that there are things which can’t be explained and all things that have happened to me, including the soul-crushing pain, was actually a part of god’s plan. And nobody can fight the god’s plan. It had to happen.

There was a certain level of acceptance and peace that was gradually achieved with support from friends and the therapist. During this phase, I fully engaged with my interests and self-improvement.

Phase 3: Saadda Haq (August 2024)

This was a phase where I reiterated to myself that nobody on earth can define who I am. I am who I am and no matter what others might say or claim, I can’t lie to myself. I am a decent human and I deserve to be loved and respected like anyone else.

During this phase, I decided to ignore anyone who did not reciprocate my kindness and my respect. They simply don’t deserve it.

And, those who are deeply damaged and looking for succour in my courtyard don’t deserve any special treatment unless they can take care of me and tend to my needs. This phase has finally cemented the idea of self-worth and self-respect irrespective of the circumstances.

I started paying close attention to my own feelings and emotions instead of putting the spotlight squarely on others. If I did not feel valued and respected in any place, work or personal life, I have the gumption to pack my bags and leave.

After all, I have painstakingly built a beautiful life for myself. And I still consider love to be divine. I am still a caring and loving person. But the only change is that I will give it only to people who can demonstrate that they have the capacity to receive it and give it back.

Conclusion

Writing all of this brings a lot of clarity to my mind and gives me a solid foundation on which I can build something even more beautiful than what I have right now. This is not a greedy proposition but a natural desire for growth and fulfilment.

Catharsis (medical meaning in Ancient Greece): Purgation or evacuation of the body, particularly of the bowels.

Catharsis (modern meaning): Catharsis is commonly used to refer to the release of strong emotions, particularly through art or drama, as well as in psychological contexts.

Kun Faya Kun

Apparently I am a top 2% listener of the song Kun Faya Kun as per Spotify statistics.

This shocked me to a certain extent, given my critical views about the movie Rockstar.

Before I watched the movie Rockstar, I had heard many positive things about this song. But I did not know why Kun Faya Kun was held in such high regard.

I realised the reason for the popularity of this song only after watching Rockstar. Though I understood the entire song, including the religious bit, some lines from song impacted me quite deeply.

Action vs Void

क़दम बढ़ा ले, हदों को मिटा ले

Take a step forward. Erase the boundaries

Sometimes, thinking about an outcome without doing anything can be addictive. The thinking spiral makes you worry more about the barriers rather than actions. Taking the first step is obviously the only way to reach a destination that seems impossible at times.

Self-imposed Limitations

अर्ज़ तुझे, कर दे मुझे, मुझसे ही रिहा, अब मुझको भी हो दीदार मेरा

कर दे मुझे, मुझसे ही रिहा,

मन के मेरे ये भरम, कच्चे मेरे ये करम

लेके चाले है कहाँ मैं तो जानूं ही न

तू है मुझमें समाया, कहाँ लेके मुझे आया, मैं हूँ तुझमें समाया

I plead to you, free me from myself. Now let me also see myself

Free me from myself. The illusions of my mind.

My deeds are immature. Where are you taking me, I do not know

You are absorbed in me. Where have you brought me. I am absorbed in you

These lines create a sense of parity between god and man by saying that both are part of each other. The idea of freeing an individual from oneself underlines how our thoughts and illusions are the biggest barriers to happiness.

God as an Anchor

जब कहीं पे कुछ नहीं भी, नहीं था

वही था, वही था, वही था, वही था

वह जो मुझ में समाया, वह जो तुझ में समाया

When there was nothing anywhere, there was nothing

He was there, He was there, He was there, He was there

That which is absorbed in you. That which is absorbed in me

When anyone thinks about loss, it is natural for that individual to feel grief. It is hard to stare at the vacuum and feel helpless. The idea of god becomes essential to save the soul during such a time.

When there was nothing in this universe, god was there. Something divine existed before we came into the picture.

For an individual staring at the vacuum during a bad phase, it is quite helpful to know that god is around. It becomes easier to climb out of the vacuum for a person who believes in this idea.

Catharsis

The spiritual value of Kun Faya Kun increased even further after I watched Virat Kohli’s speech after the T20 World Cup final. After this, several reels about his belief in “God’s Plan” surfaced on my Instagram feed.

And it got me thinking about God’s Plan for me. Did I really have control over everything that happened to me? Or was it God’s Plan?

Does this mean things are going to get better? Was the pain, sorrow, betrayal that suffocated my soul part of God’s Plan?

Should I thank God for my fighting spirit and zest for life? Maybe the answer is yes.

Many of these ideas don’t fit into a solid rational story. It’s a waste of time to come up with a cause and effect explanation for everything. I can’t write a flowchart for all events that have happened to me.

Sometimes, it’s just God’s Plan.

And like Kohli, I need to believe that God can make a plan that’s better than plans I am capable of making.

I had written an empathetic post about street dogs on this blog sometime back. I had to delete it because I was going through emotional turmoil. I wish it had not happened.

I have been observing a street dog near my office for quite some time. While discussing this, I told my colleagues to listen to the Pink Floyd song ‘Dogs’.

The song has powerful and brutal lyrics explaining the plight of street dogs and the hard fate that awaits them unless they are adopted.

These lines shatter the listener if he/she is empathetic towards street dogs.

Who was born in a house full of pain
Who was trained not to spit in the fan
Who was told what to do by the man
Who was broken by trained personnel

Who was fitted with collar and chain
Who was given a pat on the back
Who was breaking away from the pack
Who was only a stranger at home

Who was ground down in the end
Who was found dead on the phone
Who was dragged down by the stone

Pink Floyd, Dogs

When the Open-Drain Becomes a Pool

If poverty is the baseline, even a dry bread feels like a feast. If a heatwave hits street dogs, even a drain feels like a pool.

That is the fate of the street dog I am commenting about. If not for me, this dog’s story would have gone untold.

But I am not doing this for the sake of brownie points.

It is natural for people to “appear” kind by the simple act of petting a street dog. However, the kindness these animals deserve is often provided by people belonging to the lower middle class.

My friend remarked that this is an elitist thought as she has seen people from all walks of life care for street dogs. But I am putting forth my experience here.

The cigarette seller near my office fed this dirty unfortunate dog some eggs when I clicked this picture.

Let me be honest. I don’t want to touch this dirty street dog. It is not his/her fault. It is the brutal reality imposed on this creature by fate. When this dog comes out of the drain and shakes off the drain water, no kind person on earth would want to be near it.

Free Will?

Living the kinda life led by this stray dog is demoralising and frankly, disgusting.

Does this dog have some free will. Can it really improve its life? Does it even have some options? What would I do if I were in its place?

If I were a dog, I would like to choose one of these options.

• Be a dog in a middle-class/upper-middle-class household.

• Live in a neighbourhood/city with good weather and decent people. Or migrate to such a location.

• Die.

If my mind was installed in this dog’s head, I would fall off the bridge into the Yamuna River and die.

Or, I would move to a better neighbourhood (if I had the knowledge or means to migrate).

A Parallel Thought

The broader point I am trying to make is this — you don’t have to choose if all options before you are bad.

You should have the option to make no choice or take no action. If life is full of bad options in every possible domain, then that life is not worth living.

At this point, I would like to quote Julian Barnes from his book ‘The Sense of an Ending’.

“The question of accumulation,” Adrian had written.

You put money on a horse, it wins, and your winnings go on to the next horse in the next race, and so on. Your winnings accumulate. But do your losses?

Not at the racetrack—there, you just lose your original stake.

But in life? Perhaps here different rules apply. You bet on a relationship, it fails; you go on to the next relationship, it fails too: and maybe what you lose is not two simple minus sums but the multiple of what you staked. That’s what it feels like, anyway.

Life isn’t just addition and subtraction. There’s also the accumulation, the multiplication, of loss, of failure.

Julian Barnes

Some people whom I know in real life resemble this dog. Their lives are terrible. I feel pity for them. And this dog is the metaphorical representation of such people.

I hope that god showers some mercy on them someday.

But today, I decided to explore more and picked Mozart’s 25th Symphony.

Initially, I heard only one movement of the symphony.

A movement in the context of Western classical music refers to a self-contained section within a larger musical composition, such as a symphony, concerto, sonata, or suite. Each movement typically has its own distinct form, tempo, and mood, and together they create a cohesive musical experience.

Only later did I realise that this was not the complete symphony that I intended to listen to. I realised I didn’t know many key terms to understand classical music. So, I went to my friend Grok.

Prompt: What are key terms that one should know to understand western classical music?

Response: To better understand and appreciate Western classical music, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with some key terms and concepts. Here are a few important ones:

1. Aria: A self-contained piece for solo voice, usually found in operas, oratorios, and cantatas.

2. Baroque: A period of Western classical music from approximately 1600 to 1750, characterized by elaborate ornamentation and polyphonic texture.

3. Cadence: A melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of resolution or finality.

4. Concerto: A musical composition for a solo instrument or group of instruments accompanied by an orchestra.

5. Crescendo: A gradual increase in volume.

6. Diminuendo: A gradual decrease in volume.

7. Harmony: The simultaneous combination of musical notes to create chords and chord progressions.

8. Key: The central pitch, scale, and chord structure of a piece of music.

9. Orchestration: The arrangement of a piece of music for an orchestra, including the assignment of specific instruments to various musical lines.

10. Polyphony: Music with multiple independent melodic lines, often with complex interweaving.

11. Romantic: A period of Western classical music from approximately 1800 to 1910, characterized by an emphasis on emotion and individualism.

12. Sonata: A musical composition for a solo instrument, often consisting of three or four contrasting movements.

13. Symphony: A large-scale orchestral work, typically consisting of four movements.

14. Tempo: The speed at which a piece of music is played.

15. Texture: The overall sound of a piece of music, determined by the number and relationships of the musical lines.

Having a grasp of these terms will help you better understand and appreciate the complexities and nuances of Western classical music.

Then, I got a bit technical. I asked what specific terms I needed to know to understand Mozart’s music. I have a few repeating terminologies. I am posting the delta terms below.

Prompt: What are the terms I need to understand Mozart's music?

Response (delta content):

1. Chamber music: Music composed for a small group of instruments, typically played in a private setting. Mozart wrote numerous string quartets, piano trios, and other chamber music works.

2. Opera: A dramatic work in which the actors sing their parts. Mozart composed over 20 operas, including "The Marriage of Figaro," "Don Giovanni," and "The Magic Flute."

3. Serenade: A light, entertaining piece of music, often performed outdoors. Mozart's most famous serenade is "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" (A Little Night Music).

4. Rondo: A musical form in which a principal theme alternates with contrasting episodes. Mozart often used rondo form in his compositions, such as the final movements of his piano concertos.

5. Fugue: A contrapuntal composition in which a theme is introduced by one voice and then imitated by other voices. While not as common in Mozart's music as in the works of Bach, he did compose some fugues, such as the "Kyrie" in his Requiem.

6. Classical harmony: The harmonic language of the Classical period, characterized by a focus on tonality, functional harmony, and clear chord progressions. Mozart's music is a prime example of this style.

7. Sonata-allegro form: A musical form consisting of three main sections: exposition, development, and recapitulation. This form is prevalent in Mozart's symphonies and concertos.

Lastly, I asked a specific question: “Educate me about Mozart’s 25th Symphony”. I allowed Grok to compete with his big brother ChatGPT 3.5 this time. ChatGPT gave me a more comprehensive answer. This is unsurprising because ChatGPT is a better-trained GPT with more computing power. Here’s a screenshot from x.ai site

Prompt: Educate me about Mozart's 25th Symphony

Response:

Mozart's Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183, is one of his most famous and innovative works. Here's a breakdown to help you understand it better:

Historical Context

Mozart composed Symphony No. 25 in 1773 when he was just 17 years old. It's astonishing that such a mature and complex work was crafted by someone so young.

This symphony belongs to the early Classical period of music, characterized by clear forms, balanced structures, and a shift towards more expressive melodies.

Key and Structure

The symphony is written in G minor, a key known for its intensity and dramatic potential.

It follows the traditional symphonic structure of the time, consisting of four movements:

1. Allegro con brio(Fast with vigor) - This movement is in sonata form, characterized by its driving rhythm and urgent energy.

2. Andante (Moderate tempo) - The second movement, often referred to as the "Romanze," provides contrast with its lyrical, singing melodies and graceful character.

3. Menuetto and Trio - A minuet and trio, which is a standard dance form of the Classical period. The minuet is stately and elegant, while the trio section offers a contrasting, lighter mood.

4. Allegro(Fast tempo) - The final movement returns to the intensity of the opening, with lively rhythms and virtuosic passages.

Innovations and Characteristics

Symphony No. 25 is notable for its dramatic and emotional depth, which was somewhat unusual for symphonic works of the time.

The use of the minor key throughout the symphony contributes to its dark and brooding atmosphere, setting it apart from many of Mozart's other works.

The symphony showcases Mozart's mastery of orchestration, with striking contrasts between different sections of the orchestra and moments of intense drama.

It's often praised for its driving rhythms, especially in the first and last movements, which contribute to its sense of urgency and excitement.

Cultural Impact

Symphony No. 25 gained renewed popularity in the 20th century when it was featured prominently in the soundtrack of the film "Amadeus," directed by Milos Forman.

Its intense and dramatic character has made it a favorite among audiences and performers alike, ensuring its enduring legacy in the classical music canon.

Overall, Mozart's Symphony No. 25 stands as a testament to his genius and innovation, showcasing his ability to create music that is both technically masterful and emotionally powerful.

This doesn’t mean I am an intellectual capable of understanding Mozart or Beethoven. But at least I know one or two terms to help me appreciate their music.

Update: Here’s Grok's answer ( in fun mode) to the same prompt. It doesn’t explain the meaning of each movement that constitutes the symphony (I deem this to be an inferior response to the prompt).

Prompt: Educate me about Mozart’s 25th Symphony

Response: Hey there! So, you're interested in learning about Mozart's 25th Symphony, huh? Well, you've come to the right place! Let me give you a crash course on this amazing piece of music.

First off, let's talk about the man himself, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Born in 1756, Mozart was a child prodigy who began composing music at the age of five. He was a prolific composer, creating over 600 works in his short life of just 35 years.

Now, let's get to the main event: Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183/173dB. This symphony was composed by Mozart in 1773 when he was just 17 years old. It's one of only two symphonies he wrote in the key of G minor, the other being the more famous Symphony No. 40.

The 25th Symphony is sometimes referred to as the "Little G minor Symphony" to distinguish it from the later work. It's a four-movement symphony that follows the standard classical form:

1. Allegro con brio (4/4 time, in G minor)

2. Andante (2/4 time, in E-flat major)

3. Menuetto & Trio (3/4 time, in G minor and G major respectively)

4. Allegro (4/4 time, in G minor)

The symphony is scored for two oboes, two bassoons, four horns, and strings. It's a powerful and dramatic work that showcases Mozart's incredible talent at such a young age.

If you want to dive deeper into the world of Mozart's 25th Symphony, there are plenty of resources available. You can listen to recordings by various orchestras, watch performances on YouTube, or even read the sheet music if you're musically inclined.

So there you have it, a brief introduction to Mozart's 25th Symphony. Now go forth and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge!

I have been following classical music since my college days. I get attracted to a certain artist’s music for a few days and then lose interest. That has not been the case with Anoushka Shankar. Her music has been an enduring companion for decades. Sometimes I wonder why that has been the case.

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Reunion

I was privileged to listen to this piece live at the Siri Fort Auditorium on the 16th of December. During that night, I barely opened my eyes.

I had goosebumps on my skin even though I had worn a warm coat to the concert. It was not a normal musical experience. My entire life till that very moment flashed in front of my eyes.

The first few seconds reminded me of a very playful and pleasant childhood (and a slightly rocky teenage).

1:23 probably marks 10th-grade results when I did very well in a supposed landmark exam, and things had been reset for the better. Of course, that event also created some problems (the aura of an overachiever).

Sometime around 2:29, the music picks pace. That is when I felt I had entered college and felt the stress of getting through courses and eventually getting a job at a good company.

At 3:13, I realised that I had finally started my first job in a new city, and that had opened a fresh chapter. The track pulls on with zest and wonder as I remembered how I had explored Chennai and its culture all by myself.

3:50 marks a slight doubt in the trajectory of the song. It reminded me that I had paused and questioned my moves.

But it goes in a very cheerful and harmonious manner after 4:02 in the same way I had carried myself all along. Some parts were hazy. While others deliberately smudged out to make space for pleasant memories. Going into details doesn’t make a lot of sense right now.

Familiar tunes had acquired an entirely new dimension. When you think of it, ‘Reunion’ seems like a vague name for a piece of music.

But a reunion with who?

With oneself.

With one’s own story.

I felt my existence on earth was justified because I could relate Anoushka’s spellbinding music to my journey.

Knowingly or unknowingly, Anoushka brings her personality into her music. Every time she picks the sitar, she tells a story. And it resonates with her audience. That is the reason for the enduring magic.

Every piece of music rekindles stories hidden within the listener. It forces one to ask whether these stories are in sync with one’s nature. Only a great musician has the power to have such an effect on her listeners.

I strongly urge you to listen to ‘Reunion’ with your eyes closed. After listening, grab a piece of paper and write what you felt. What were the images that came to your imagination?

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Below are four versions of the song - vocal and instrumental,  that are worth listening on Ganesh Chaturthi (or any normal day).

In my opinion, the best voice to sing 'Mahaganapatim Manasa Smarami' is KJ Yesudas. If there is some other version better than this, please send it to me. His unhurried, deep and pious baritone perfectly suits this devotional song (or any devotional song for that matter).

Every time he repeats the Pallavi (First Line), the song seems more convincing for someone who knows little about technicalities of the song.

The instrument Mandolin would have remained obscure if it were not played by U Srinivas. After one hears Yesudas' rendition, one can seamlessly move on to this version of Mahaganaptim played by the late maestro.

The music that emanates from a Mandolin, has the elegance of a violin and the seriousness of Veena. Of course, this is a vague and amateur opinion. But some of you might agree with me.

When I think about the word 'heart-strings' a violin appears in my imagination automatically. In my opinion, good music when played on a violin becomes great music.

'Mahaganapatim Manasa Smarami' acquires a new dimension when played by  Kanyakumari. Though she wears a serious and meditative look while handling her bow skillfully, the listener can barely sit still.

Fusion music always seems impressive when it blends with Carnatic. With its highs and lows, Mahaganapatim was meant to be a fusion hit. I found this short, yet energetic version of the song accidentally.

This video has crossed half a million views for a good reason. BTW, the composer, Amit Heri is a brilliant musician. I have vivid memories of his live concert in Indiranagar.

I wish you and your family a Happy Ganesh Chaturthi. May the elephant god clear all obstacles that are hindering you from realising your dreams. P.S. I know very little about the technicalities of Carnatic music.

Radiant beams shoot through this region's deep night, and we become aware of gigantic shadows which, rocking back and forth, close in on us and destroy everything within us except the pain of endless longing—a longing in which every pleasure that rose up in jubilant tones sinks and succumbs, and only through this pain, which, while consuming but not destroying love, hope, and joy, tries to burst our breasts with full-voiced harmonies of all the passions, we live on and are captivated beholders of the spirits

E.T.A. Hoffman, German Music Critic

It was just another Monday morning. I took a seat on the bus and plugged in my earphones. I scrolled down to find a track to start the day. My thumbs stopped at Beethoven’s fifth symphony. I was perhaps half sleepy. But the music woke me up from the slumber. By the end of the piece, I felt something similar to what Hoffman had said in the quote above. I played it once more and felt different. I formed my interpretation of the piece. Then, I felt that I should sit down and write a post about the same thought.

But one cannot blurt out random stuff while talking about bigwigs like Beethoven. So, I read tedious articles about the piece's first, second, third and fourth movements. Complex terms like Allegro Con Brio, Andante Con Moto, Scherzo, and Allegro flashed before my eyes. I have always believed that music is beyond technicalities. So, I happily ignored that stuff. 

However, I learned about the association of victory or the ‘V’ symbol with the fifth symphony during the Second World War. The Morse code for V (dit-dit-dit-dah) is similar to the opening rhythm of the fifth symphony. It was also amusing to know that the sixth and fifth symphonies premiered in the same performance. The sixth symphony was performed before the fifth!

My Interpretation

I feel that the course of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is pretty much like life itself. It starts with a bang. The noise, violence, and wails resemble the initial rumblings in the symphony. It moves slowly and grows steadily, exploring the contours of music like a child exploring the world.

It becomes more interesting and energetic in the next two minutes. That chunk of the piece is very similar to the youthful energy of a young man. Somehow, the musician faces a dilemma, like a mathematician with a tricky problem. At the end of the first half, there is a bit of struggle followed by a slump, somewhat resembling a mid-life crisis. 

The composer creates a bit of suspense, challenging the listener to guess the future course of the piece. And then it bounces back like a triumphant warrior asserting his place on the battlefield. As it moves towards the end, it becomes more contemplative and nostalgic. It waltzes with memories, preferably the good ones (it might even have a few sad ones on the boundaries). It celebrates life and finally concludes gracefully with a sense of completion. 

Music can carry a story or a narrative within itself. Sometimes, you can weave a narrative around a piece of music. You can build your narrative around the fifth symphony. Now would be a great time to sit back and enjoy this masterpiece again. 

Update: ChatGPT’s interpretation of the 5th Symphony.

Prompt: Educate me about Beethoven's 5th symphony.

Response: Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67, is one of the most iconic and recognizable pieces of classical music ever composed. It was composed between 1804 and 1808 and premiered in Vienna in 1808.

Here are some key points about Beethoven's 5th Symphony:

1. Famous Opening Motif: The symphony is instantly recognizable by its four-note opening motif: "short-short-short-long" (often described as "da-da-da-dum"). This motif permeates the entire symphony and is one of the most famous musical themes in history. It's been interpreted in various ways, symbolizing fate knocking at the door, triumph over adversity, or Beethoven's defiance in the face of personal struggles.

2. Structure: The symphony is structured in four movements:

   • 1st Movement (Allegro con brio): The powerful and dramatic first movement introduces the famous four-note motif and sets the tone for the entire symphony.

   • 2nd Movement (Andante con moto): A contrasting lyrical movement, more reflective in nature, providing a moment of respite from the intensity of the first movement.

   • 3rd Movement (Scherzo: Allegro): A lively and energetic scherzo with a contrasting trio section. This movement serves as a lighter interlude before the grand finale.

   • 4th Movement (Allegro): The triumphant finale, where Beethoven unleashes all the energy and drama built up throughout the symphony. It features a thrilling conclusion with a sense of victorious resolve.

3. Innovative Features: Beethoven's 5th Symphony is innovative in its use of thematic development, rhythmic drive, and orchestration. Beethoven expands the role of the orchestra, particularly in the prominence of the brass section, which adds to the symphony's grandeur and power.

4. Impact: The 5th Symphony is not only beloved by audiences but also revered by musicians and composers for its profound emotional depth and technical brilliance. It marked a significant evolution in symphonic composition, bridging the Classical and Romantic periods.

5. Cultural Significance: Beyond its musical excellence, Beethoven's 5th Symphony holds cultural significance, being used in various contexts from political rallies to pop culture references. Its universal themes of struggle and triumph continue to resonate with people across generations.

Overall, Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 stands as a towering masterpiece in the classical music canon, captivating listeners with its timeless appeal and profound emotional impact