2021-08-31 Tue

Rudra-Veena is an invention of Lord Shiva, inspired by the form of his consort Goddess Parvati. It is the king of instruments because all string instruments are shaped after it. In the early period, it was played along with the Veda mantra Pathan (Vedic recital) and also during the Yaga Yagna(Vedic rituals) performed by the rishis. Rudra-Veena was considered equivalent to ‘Shank’, its sounds accompanied with the worship rituals was considered sacred and was only performed by few selected men.

Its grammar and principle are based on the Dhrupad style of music. Dhrupad was evolved by the ‘Sama Veda’s’ chanting. This instrument of temple later came to Mughal court which changed the lyric, tempo and style of performing. It used to performed the ‘Varnanas’ of deities but later it started describing ‘Prakriti Varnana’, ‘Shringar Ras’ and praise of Emperors.

Its popularity rose after the 8th to 16th century, it is also considered a golden period for Rudra-Veena. Due to this many artists were produced like Swami Haridas, Miya Tansen, Baiju Bawara, etc. Rudra-Veena cannot be bought because its making is unique, its length should be 11 times the hand span of the player and its tuning can be complete only after places on the body. Its playing connects with the artist breathing rhythm and it is played traditionally in ‘Vajrasan’.

Rudra-Veen was only played by men before but today females also perform on it. This instrument is divine in every form with connects a listener to the cosmos. To respect the unique instrument India post has issued a commemorative stamp in 1998.

Image Courtesy: stampvalue.com