Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Nadaswaram.

In my previous article I wrote about Africa’s popular but unpleasant Vuvuzela horn that
is being blown incessantly at all football matches of FIFA 2010 World Cup. In
conclusion I wrote that the general opinion among many players, spectators and
commentators is that Vuvuzela is annoying, disturbing and unpleasant. Soon after posting
that article I was reminded of our own auspicious and melodious Nadaswaram which
looks similar to Vuvuzela but is different in every other aspect.
Nadaswaram is very popular all over South India and it is a part of its classical music. It
is called as ‘Mangala Vaaidhyam’. Mangala means auspicious and Vaaidhyam means
musical instrument. Nadaswaram is played in pairs accompanied by two drums as can be
seen in the pictures below. It is played in Hindu temples, at religious processions,
festivals and auspicious occasions like Upanayanam ceremony, and all marriage related
functions. In Andhra Pradesh it is popularly called as ‘Sannai Melam’.
The music is very melodious and brings about a very pious and festive atmosphere.
Several Thyagaraja Keerthanalu, marriage songs and classical carnatic recitations are
rendered by the ‘Sannai Melam’ group. I am providing a ‘youtube’ link at the bottom of
this article for you to listen and enjoy. This ‘Sannai Melam’ team is from Mississauga,
Ontario, Canada performing at a marriage that took place there. This speaks of its
importance and popularity among South Indians wherever they may be in the world.  
 CLICK HERE to listen to Nadaswaram Music.
Posted by Raghu N at 10:40 AM