Shyama Shastri (1762-1827) - Biography and Complete Works

BIOGRAPHY

Shyama Shastri was the oldest of the Trinity of Carnatic music. He was a contemporary of the other two, Tyagaraja and Muthuswami Dikshitar, and was a personal friend of the former. He was born Venkatakrishna, in Tiruvarur (of Thanjavur district in Tamil Nadu) on April 26, 1762, into the scholarly and priestly Tamil Brahmin family of Viswanatha Iyer; a family not particularly interested in music. Though Shyama Shastri attained scholarship in Telugu and Sanskrit at a young age, he got no further than the elementary stages in music education, in spite of his melodious voice. When he was eighteen years old, his family moved to Tanjore.
Around then, his family got a chance to host a sanyasi (monk), sangitaswami, a master of dance and music, who was spending some four months in Tanjore. The sanyasi was quick to discover Shyama Shastri's keen intellect, melodious voice and musical talent and foresaw greatness in him. He obtained the father's consent to tutor the son in music and taught Shyama Shastri all aspects of raga, tala and swara prasthara-s. The teacher found that the student could absorb even the intricate details very quickly, all in a matter of four months or less. Sangitaswami presented Shyama Shastri with a few rare treatises on music and certified that the student had gained full knowledge on the theoretical aspects of music. He advised his student to seek the friendship of and listen to the music (but not learn anything from) one Pachimiriam Adiyappayya Ayya, a composer of the famous bhairavi ata tala varnam, viriboni, and a court musician in Tanjore. Shyama Shastri duly did as he was advised.
Over the years, Shyama Shastri became a well-known and respected musician, scholar and a composer. He was quite admired and respected by Tyagaraja and it appears that the two of them often held scholarly and lengthy discussions on their latest compositions. Shyama Shastri, like his father was the archaka (priest) in the Bangaru Kamakshi Temple in Tanjore. He was a very pious and genuine devotee of Goddess Kamakshi. He is believed to have lost consciousness of the outside world on several occasions as he prayed to the Goddess. On such occasions, he would sing his kriti-s extemporaneously. His father had the patronage of the Tanjore king. Hence, the family was financially comfortable.
Shyama Shastri had two sons, Panju Shastri and Subbaraya Shastri. The former became a priest and the latter was a versatile musician (and a disciple of Tyagaraja). Through Panju Shastri, the family tree grew and produced quite a few scholars. Shyama Shastri's great grandson was alive till the age of 94 and passed away only in 1950. Hence, many incidents of Shyama Shastri's life are known. He was reportedly a tall and a rather stout person with a fondness for betel leaves! Shyama Shastri, like Tyagaraja and Dikshitar, was well-versed in astrology. Like his great contemporaries, he too correctly predicted the time of his passing. He passed away on February 6, 1827, six days after, his devoted wife passed away.
Although he did not compose as many kriti-s as his two prolific contemporaries, Shyama Shastri's compositions are equally well known. It is said that he has composed about three hundred pieces in all. He did not have too many disciples to propagate his compositions, nor was the printing press an easy convenience during his time! More importantly, the scholarly nature of his compositions was not appealing to the layperson; they needed to be studied to be savoured. He composed in Telugu, Sanskrit and Tamil and mostly on Goddess Devi. He has composed kriti-s in, varnam-s and swarajati-s with the ankita/mudra (signature) 'Shyama Krishna'. He is said to be the architect of the swarajati musical form. His set of three famous swarajati-s is referred to as ratna trayam. These are in Bhairavi, Yadukulakambodhi and Todi.
Shyama Shastri's compositionsare usually in common raga-s, except for a few in raga-s such as Manji, Chintamani, Kalagada and Karnataka Kapi. His favourite raga-s seem to have been Saveri and Anandabhairavi, judging from the number of kriti-s composed in these raga-s. Anandabhairavi, an old raga that was frequently used in folk music, seemed to acquire a new stature after he composed masterpieces such as mariveregati, himachala tanaya, o jagadamba, pahi sri giriraja and even a couple of varnam-s in it. His rare originality was in swara sahitya compositions and the use of swarakshara. In other words, swara and sahitya having identical sounding syllables such as 'padasarara' corresponding to the swara-s pa da sa in the kriti, devi ni in Kambodhi. Though most of his compositions are on Goddess Kamakshi, he is said to have composed his navaratnamalika on Goddess Meenakshi of Madurai at the request of a person unknown to him. These include kriti-s such as saroja dala netri in Shankarabharanam, mayamma in Ahiri, meena lochana brova in Dhanyasi , etc. His Krithis usually have the pen-name ShyamaKrishna in the charanam of the song.
Shyama Shastri would perhaps stand out most for the "rhythmic beauties" employed in his kriti-s, such as the use of five-syllable words like sarasamukhi, varamosagu, kamalamukhi, etc. These correspond to the rhythmic phrase "ta dhin gi na thom". His kriti-s feature the abundant use of the misra chapu tala (4+3). He also features dual rhythms as in sankari samkuru in raga saveri, with the inherent rhythm of rupakam and a suggestive rhythm of adi tala. "Shyama Shastri had a rhythmical frame of mind and he was always swimming in the ethereal regions of rhythm and tala prasthara.

Musical Background: Syama Sastri did not come from a family of musicians, but was taught some music by his uncle. Despite being groomed to be a priest, he had plenty of interest and talent in music. He was taught by an ascetic, Sangeeta Swami, about the intricacies of raga and tala.

Region: Syama Sastri was born in Tiruvarur, Tanjavur district, but lived in Tanjavur. He did not travel much.

Contributions

Rhythmic aspects: Some of Syama Sastri’s songs are very rich in rhythmic conception. Though he composed in talas like
Adi, Triputa, Roopaka, etc., he specialised in Misra Chapu, where he not only used the normal pattern (3+4), but also
the reverse (4+3), called the Viloma Chapu. His use of different gatis like Tisra and Misra in his compositions show his
prowess in Laya. There is an interesting incident, which is a testimony to his strength in Laya. He was once challenged by Bobbili
Kesavayya to sing a Pallavi in Simhanandana tala (the longest tala with 128 beats per cycle). To everyone's amazement,
he not only sang it but also composed a new Pallavi in Sarabhanandana tala (79 beats per cycle).

Theme: His compositions were totally devotional in nature, mostly in praise of Goddess Kamakshi of Kanchipuram.

Languages used: Predominantly Telugu; a few in Sanskrit and Tamil.

Signature: Syama Sastri used the mudra, Syamakrishna.

Popular kritis: Kamakshi (Bhairavi), Himadrisute (Kalyani), Sankari Sankuru (Saveri) etc.

Compositions: Shyama Shastri is credited with about 300 songs, of which only about 60 - 70 are available today. He
composed a group of nine kritis known as Navaratnamalika (garland of nine gems) in praise of Goddess Meenakshi of
Madurai temple. He has composed three peerless Swarajatis, collectively known as the Ratnatrayam. He has also
composed a few Varnams, not to mention other compositions in rare ragas, like Chintamani (his own discovery),
Kalagada etc. His favourite raga seems to be Anandabhairavi, in which he has excelled himself.

Compositions Of Shyama Shastri (1762-1827)

These compositions are ordered by Ragam classified by mela. These are fllowed by the song title, specific janya ragam,
and the talam. If you are looking for a particular song in this massive list, I can offer you two suggestions: 1)Hit
CTRL+F or go to the edit menu and select find on your browser and enter the contexts you would like to search for

Melakartas

8. HanumatodiEmani Migula - Todi - Adi Karunanidhi Ilalo - Todi - Rupakam Ninne Namminanu - Todi - Mishra Capu Rave Himagiri Kumari (Svarajati) - Todi - Adi Mina Locana Brova - Dhanyasi - Mishra Capu Enneramum - Punnagavarali - Adi Kanaka Shaila Viharini - Punnagavarali - Adi Brova Samayamu - Punnagavarali - Adi

13. GayakapriyaParvati Ninnu Nera - Kalgada - Tishra Gati Adi

14. VakulabharanamMayammayani Ne - Ahiri - Adi

15. MayamalavagaulaTarunam Idamma - Gaulipantu - Adi Nannu Brovarada - Gaulipantu - Mishra Capu Purahara Jaye - Gaulipantu - Mishra Capu Dayajuda - Jaganmohini - Mishra Capu Kamaksi Karunakataksi - Pharaj - Triputa Triloka Mata Nannu - Pharaj - Mishra Capu Santatam Ennai Raksippai (Gitam) - Pharaj - Adi Nannu Brova - Vasanta - Eka Janani Natajana - Saveri - Adi Durusuga Krpa Juci - Saveri - Adi Sarasaksi (Gitam) - Saveri - Triputa Shahnkari Shamkuru Candramukhi - Saveri - Tishra Gati Adi Shri Patimukha Viracita - Saveri - Adi Rave Mayamma Bahngaru - Saveri - Adi Sarva Sakhi (Gitam) - Saveri - Triputa Nilayataksi - Saveri-Mayamalavagaula-Pharaj - Triputa

17. SuryakantamNannu Brovu Lalita - Lalita - Mishra (Viloma) Capu Namanavini (Varnam) - Saurastram - Caturashra Ata

20. NathabhairaviAdinamunihnci - Anandabhairavi - Triputa O Jagadamba - Anandabhairavi - Adi Pahi Shri Girirajasute - Anandabhairavi - Rupakam Marivere Gati - Anandabhairavi - Triputa Mahilo Amba - Anandabhairavi - Adi Samini Rammanave (Varnam) - Anandabhairavi - Ata Himacala Tanayu - Anandabhairavi - Viloma Capu Bahngaru Kamaksi - Anandabhairavi - Adi Ninnu Namminanu (Pada Varnam) - Anandabhairavi - Adi Sara Saksi I Vela - Anandabhairavi - Ata Kamaksi Amba (Svarajati) - Bhairavi - Mishra Capu Parvati Janani (Gitam) - Bhairavi - Khanda Matya Sari Evaramma - Bhairavi - Jhampa Vanita Ninne (Tana Varnam) - Bhairavi - Adi Brovavamma - Mahnji - Mishra Capu

21. KiravaniBrovumu Manine - Kiravani - Adi

22. KharaharapriyaAkhilandeshvari - Karnataka Kapi - Adi Kamaksi Lokasaksi - Madhyamavati - Triputa Palihncu Kamaksi Pavani - Madhyamavati - Adi Brhannayaki - Madhyamavati - Tishra Matya Palimpavamma Parama Pavani - Mukhari - Adi Ninnu Vina Mari Galada - Ritigaula - Rupakam (Tishra Nadai Adi) Karunajuda Ninnu - Shri - Mishra Capu

28. HarikambhojiDevi Ni Pada Sarasamule - Kambhoji - Adi Ninne Nammiti - Kedaragaula - Adi Parakela Nannu - Kedaragaula - Adi Mayamma Nannu Brova - Natakurahnji - Adi Kamaksi Nipadayugamu (Svarajati) - Yadukulakambhoji - Mishra Capu

29. DhirashahnkarabharanamDevi Mina Netri - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Saroja Dala Netri - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Nannu Karunihnci Brovu - Shahnkarabharanam - Rupakam Palayashumam - Arabhi - Triputa Nannu Brovarada - Janarahnjani - Triputa Brovavamma - Nilambari - Triputa Ninnu Vina - Bilahari - Jhampa Kamaksi Natovada - Begada - Adi Dayanidhe Mamava (Varnam) - Begada - Adi Sami Ninne - Begada - Adi

36. CalanataPahi Mam Shri Rajarajeshvari - Nata - Rupakam

39. JhalavaraliKarunajudavamma - Varali - Mishra Capu Kamaksi Bahngaru - Varali - Triputa

53. GamanashramaEnneramum - Purvikalyani - Triputa Ninnuvinaga - Purvikalyani - Deshadi, Mishra Nadai

56. ShanmukhapriyaDevi Brova Samayamide - Cintamani - Adi

65. MecakalyaniTalli Ninnu Nera - Kalyani - Mishra Capu Devi Nannu Brova - Kalyani - Jhampa Nive Gatiyani - Kalyani - Tishra Matya Paramukhamenamma - Kalyani - Triputa Birana Varalicci - Kalyani - Tishra Nadai Adi Rave Parvata Rajakumari - Kalyani - Jhampa Shahnkari Shahnkari - Kalyani - Ata Shri Kamaksi - Kalyani - Adi Himadri Sute Pahimam - Kalyani - Tishra Nadai Adi

MUTHUSWAMI DIKSHITAR (1775 - 1835) - BIOGRAPHY AND COMPLETE WORKS

Muttusvami Dikshitar (1775-1835) - The youngest of the Carnatic Musical Trinity was born in 1776, brought up with 2 brothers and a sister with great care and acquiring proficiency in both music and Sanskrit. His family moved to Manali, where he became a disciple of Cidambaranaata Yogi and went to Varanaasi. For 5 years he stayed there and learned Hindustani music, especially the Dhrupad style of music. After his guru died, he returned to the south and came to the holy shrine of Tiruttani to pray and meditate before Lord Subramanya. One day the Lord appeared to him, asked him to open his mouth, placed a piece of sugar candy in his mouth, and disappeared. After this, Dikshitar began composing beautiful kritis. The first piece he sang was "ShreenataDi guruguhO jayati jayati." Then he went to Kaanceepuram and sang songs in praise of Ekaambaratanaata and Kaamaakshi. He visited various temples to compose songs, from the TaamrapaaNi River (Shree kaantimateem) and Rameshwaram (Raamanaatham bhajEham) to Kaasi (Kaasi visaalakshi). Then he returned to Tiruvaaroor, where he gathered disciples and taught them his composition. His brothers became proficient at rendering his compositions as well and went to Madurai to teach these songs. Once, because of poverty, Dikshitar did not have the means to make his offerings to the deity. His disciple, the famous dancer Kamalam, offered to pledge her jewels and raise the money. He refused and composed "Tyaagaraajam bhajarE," trusting in God. Soon 2 cartloads of food and articles reached his house as a gift from the manager of the choultry. After the death of his brother Cinnaswaami, his brother Baalaswaami left and was made a Samastaana Vidwaan at ETTayapuram in 1824. Dikshitar left to meet his suriving brother, and on the way fervently sang "Aanandaamruta" in amritavarshini, seeing the dry condition of the land. Apparently, there was a heavy downpour soon afterward. Dikshitar met his brother and attended his marriage as well. Then he returned to Tiuvaaroor. His group kritis include the navagraha kritis in praise of the 7 principal planets and the Kamalaambaa navaavarana kritis - 9 songs in praise of the deity of Tiruvaaroor. He also composed small kritis with SamaashTi caraNams (which include both Anupallavi and CaraNam). 461 songs in 191 raagams are available today. He used characteristic phrases of raagam and was a master of rhyme. He often chose a slow tempo. In 1835 he went to ETTaiyapuram to attend a marriage in the royal family and stayed there. "Meenaakshi mE mudam" is supposed to be one of his last compositions, created in Madurai on his way to ETTaiyapuram, where he passed away on October 21, 1835

Early years

Consistent with the education of Brahmin boys of that time, Muttuswami learnt the Vedas, Sanskrit and other important religious texts. He also obtained his preliminary musical education from his father. While he was still in his teens, his father sent him on a pilgrimage with a wandering monk named Chidambaranatha Yogi, to gain musical and philosophical knowledgde. Over the course of this pilgrimage, he visited many places in North India, and acquired a broad outlook that is reflected in many of his compositions. During their stay in Kashi (Varanasi), his guru Chidambarantha Yogi, presented him with a unique Vina, and passed away shortly thereafter. The Samadhi of Chidambaranatha Yogi can still be seen in the Hanuman Ghat area in Varanasi.
Muttuswami Dikshitar attained mastery over the Vina instrument, and the influence of Vina playing is evident in his compositions. He composed his first song "Sri nathadhi guruguho" in the Raga Maya-malava-gowla, in the temple of Tiruttani (near present day Chennai). The song was in praise of his Guru, but also in praise of the Lord Subramanya, who is identified with the concept of a "teacher" or guru in the Hindu theology.

Contribution

Muthuswami Dikshitar, it is said, composed his first kriti after having a vision of Lord Subramanya, his favourite deity. He composed the Vara kritis, which are seven in number, one for each day of the week. These are set to the Sooladi Sapta talas. Drawing inspiration from Oothukadu Venkata Kavi, he also composed the Navavarana kritis in praise of Devi (Kamalamba), one for each of the nine days of the Navaratri festival. Being a widely travelled man, he composed several songs in many Hindustani ragas. His songs are normally slow in tempo and bring out the depth and beauty of the raga using ornamentation (gamakas). He also used what is known as Madhyamakala (medium tempo) Sahitya very effectively in his compositions.

Theme

That he was a much-travelled man is reflected in his compositions. Most of them contain descriptions about famous temples and their chief deities. There are also several others based on Vedas, Upanishads, Tantra, etc.

Languages used
Mostly Sanskrit and a few in Telugu. He has also composed Manipravala kritis, which is a mixture of two or more languages.

Signature: His signature or mudra is Guruguha, which is another name for Lord Subramanya.

Mudra: Guruguha

Popular kritis: Vatapi Ganapatim (Hamsadhwani), Annapoorne (Sama), Kanjadalayatakshi (Kamalamanohari) and so on.

Compositions Of Muthuswamy Dikshitar (1776-1827)

These compositions are ordered by Ragam classified by mela. These are followed by the song title, specific janya ragam, and the talam. If you are looking for a particular song in this massive list, I can offer you two suggestions: 1)Hit CTRL+F or go to the edit menu and select find on your browser and enter the contexts you would like to search for.

Melakartas:

1. Kanakambari - Kanakahngi

Kanakambari Karunyamrta Lahari - Kanakambari - Rupakam Akhilandeshvaro Raksatu - Shuddha Saveri - Rupakam
Ekamreshanayike - Shuddha Saveri - Adi
Muraharena Mukundea - Shuddhamukhari - Rupakam

2. Phenadyuti - Ratnangi

Shri Daksinamurtimisham - Phenadyuti - Adi

3. Ganasamavarali - Ganamurti

Brhadishvaro Raksatumam - Ganasamavarali - Rupakam Parameshvarena - Purvavarali - Adi
Matsyavatara Mamava - Bhinnapahngamam -Adi

4. Bhanumati - Vanaspati

Guruguhasvamini - Bhanumati - Khanda Triputa Talam
Brhadamba Madamba - Bhanumati - Adi

5. Manorahnjani - Manavati
Balambike Pahi - Manorahnjani - Matyam

6. Tanukirti - Tanarupi Cidambara Natarajamurtim - Tanukirti - Mishra Capu

7. Senagrani - Senavati
Jhnanambike Palaya Mam - Senagrani - Tishra Ekam

8. Janatodi - HanumatodiTodi - Rupakam Todi - Rupakam Mahaganapatim Vande - Todi - Rupakam Palaya Mam Brhadishvari - Todi - Rupakam Ramacandraya - Todi - Mishra Capu Vedaranyeshvaraya - Todi - Adi Shri Krsnam Bhaja Manasa - Todi - Adi Shri Subrahmanyo Mam Raksatu - Todi - Adi Kumarasvaminam - Asaveri - Adi Candram Bhaja Manasa - Asaveri - Caturashra Matyam Ganalole - Nagavarali - Mishra Capu Ehi Annapurne- Punnagavarali - Adi Kamalambikayastava Bhaktoham - Punnagavarali - Rupakam

9. Dhunibhinnasadjam - DhenukaCidambareshvam - Dhunibhinnasadjam - Adi Shri Guruguhamurte - Udayaravicandrika - Rupakam Sadacaleshvaram Bhavaye - Bhupalam - Adi Mohananataragapriye Lalite - Mohananata - Adi

10. Natabharanam - NatakapriyaVishvanatham Bhajeham - Natabharanam - Adi

11. Kokilaravam - KokilapriyaKodandaramam - Kokilaravam - Adi

12. RupavatiShri Krsnam Bhajare - Rupavati - Tishra Ekam

13. Geyahejjajji - GayakapriyaRamacandrabhaktam - Geyahejjajji - Adi

14. Vativasantabhairavi - VakulabharanamPrasannavehnkatesham - Vativasantabhairavi - Triputa Brhadishvarim Bhajare - Lalitapahncamam - Adi

15. MayamalavagaulaNilotpalambikayastava - Mayamalavagaula - Mishra Capu Shri Nathadi Guruguho Jayati - Mayamalavagaula - Adi Shri Ganeshatparam - Ardradeshi - Jhampa Agastishvaram - Lalita - Mishra Capu Hiranmayim Laksmim - Lalita - Rupakam Renukadevi - Kannada Bahngala - Mishra Jhampa Gunijanadi - Gujjari - Adi Rajarajendra - Gundakriya - Triputa Tyagaraja Palaya - Gaula - Adi Nilotpalambikayah Param - Gaula - Rupakam Mahisasuramardini - Gaula - Khanda Capu Shri Mahaganapati- Gaula - Mishra Capu Krsnananda Mukundamurare - Gaulipantu - Mishra Capu Gauri Girirajakumari - Gauri - Rupakam Shri Minaksi Gauri - Gauri - Rupakam Nilotpalambike - Chayagaula - Rupakam Sarasvatya Bhagavatya Samraksitoham - Chayagaula - Mishra Capu Namaste Paradevate - Devarahnji - Tishra Ekam Sundaramurtim Ashrayami - Takka - Rupakam Nilakanthaya - Nadanamakriya - Mishra Capu Pratyahngirabhagavatim - Nadanamakriya - Mishra Capu Shri Guruna Palitosmi- Padi - Rupakam Cintaye Mahalihnga - Pharaj - Adi Madhuramba Jayati - Pharaj - Mishra Capu Mahalihngeshvaram - Pharaj - Adi Shri Shukrabhagavantam- Pharaj - Khanda Ata Sadhujanacitta Sarasijodayam - Purnapahncamam - Triputa Shri Guruguhasya Dasoham - Purvi - Mishra Capu Shri Parvatiparameshvarau Vande- Bauli - Adi Shri Bhargavi - Mahngalakaishiki - Mishra Capu Pahncamatahngamukha Ganapatina - Malahari - Rupakam Vighineshvaram - Malahari - Adi Vasudevamupasmahe - Malavapahncamam - Rupakam Maruvakadi Malini Sulini - Maruva - Adi Mahngaladevate Paradevate - Margadeshi - Adi Vehnkateshvara Yadava Bhupatim - Megharahnjani - Rupakam Govindarajena Raksitoham - Mecabauli - Rupakam Rama Rama - Ramakali - Rupakam Sharavanabhava - Revagupti - Rupakam Sadavinathasadare - Revagupti - Rupakam Nilakantha - Vasanta - Rupakam Brhadambikayai - Vasanta - Mishra Capu Marakatalihngam - Vasanta - Adi Ramacandram Bhavayami - Vasanta - Rupakam Hariharaputram- Vasanta - Khanda Ekam Avyajakarunakataksi - Salahnganata - Tishra Triputa Karikalabhamukham- Saveri - Rupakam Shri Rajagopala - Saveri - Adi Gokarneshvara - Saurastram - Adi Varalaksmim - Saurastram - Adi Suryamurte Namostute- Saurastram - Caturashra Dhruvam

16. Toyavegavahini - CakravakamKailasanatham - Vegavahini - Adi Gajananayutam - Vegavahini - Caturashra Ekam Varahim Vaisnavim - Vegavahini - Mishra Capu Vinayaka Vihna - Vegavahini - Rupakam Vinapustakadharinim - Vegavahini - Khanda Ekam

17. Chayavati - SuryakantamChayavatim Anandavallim - Chayavati - Adi

18. Jayashuddhamalavi - HatakambariNaraharimashrayami - Jayashuddhamalavi - Triputa

19. Jhahnkarabhramari - JhahnkaradhvaniHimacalakumarim Bhaje - Jhahnkarabhramari - Rupakam

20. Nariritigaula - NatabhairaviNilotpalambam- Nariritigaula - Mishra Capu Shri Nilotpalanayike - Nariritigaula - Rupakam Abhayamba Nayaka Harisayaka - Anandabhairavi - Adi Anandeshvarena - Anandabhairavi - Mishra Capu Kamalamba Samraksatu Mam- Anandabhairavi - Mishra Capu Tyagarajayogavaibhavam - Anandabhairavi - Rupakam Dandayudhapanim - Anandabhairavi - Rupakam Paradevate - Anandabhairavi - Adi Manasa Guruguha - Anandabhairavi - Rupakam Sami Ni - Anandabhairavi - Adi Vinabheri- Abheri - Adi Kusumakara - Ahiri - Adi Shri Kamalamba Jayati- Ahiri - Rupakam Balakrsnam - Gopikavasantam - Adi Shri Kamalambike Avava - Ghanta - Adi Shri Mahngalambikam - Ghanta - Jhampa Paradevata Brhatkucamba - Dhanyashi - Adi Mahngaladevataya - Dhanyashi - Rupakam Mayuranatham - Dhanyashi - Mishra Capu Ramacandradanyam - Dhanyashi - Khanda Capu Vedapurishvaram - Dhanyashi - Adi Shri Rahnganathaya - Dhanyashi - Rupakam Navaratna Vilasa Vaibhava - Navaratnavilasam - Adi Nagagandhari - Nagagandhari - Adi Sarasijanabha Sodari- Nagagandhari - Rupakam Aryam Abhayambam Bhajare - Bhairavi - Khanda Jati Ata Cintaya Makanda - Bhairavi - Rupakam Trilocanamohinim - Bhairavi - Adi Devi Jagadishvari - Bhairavi - Rupakam Balagopala - Bhairavi - Adi Lalitambikayai - Bhairavi - Mishra Capu Shri Kamalambikayah Param Nahi Re- Bhairavi - Mishra Jhampa Ramacandrena - Mahnji - Rupakam Shri Sarasvati Hite - Mahnji - Adi Candrasekharam- Margahindolam - Adi Margahindolaraga - Margahindolam - Adi Ekamranathaya - Mukhari - Rupakam Govindarajam - Mukhari - Mishra Capu Pahi Mam Ratnacalanayaka - Mukhari - Adi Govarddhana Girisham - Hindolam - Rupakam Nirajaksi Kamaksi - Hindolam - Rupakam Sarasvati Vidhiyuvati- Hindolam - Rupakam Tyagaraja - Hindolam - Rupakam Santana Ramasvaminam- Hindolavasantam - Adi

21. Kiranavali - KiravaniPahncabhutakiranavalim - Kiranavali - Khanda Ekam Shri Vehnkatesham - Kalyanavasantam

22. Shri Raga - KharaharapriyaKameshvarena - Shri - Adi Tyagaraja Mahadhvajaroha - Shri - Adi Shri Abhayamba - Shri - Adi Shri Kamalambike- Shri - Khanda Ekam Shri Muladharacakravinayaka - Shri - Adi Shri Varalaksmi - Shri - Rupakam Shri Laksmivaraham- Abhogi - Adi Nilotpalambikaya - Kannadagaula - Adi Balambikayah - Kanada (Kapi) - Adi Vishveshvaro Raksatu - Kanada (Kapi) - Adi Virahanumate Namo- Kapi - Rupakam Vehnkatacalapate - Kapi - Adi Shri Maharahnji (Manipravalam) - Kapi - Khanda Ekam Kayarohanesham- Devagandharam - Rupakam Pahncashatpitharupini- Devagandharam - Adi Tripurasundari - Devamanohari - Adi Bharati Mathisna - Devamanohari - Rupakam Mahadevena - Devamanohari - Adi Varahim - Devamanohari - Triputa Tyagarajadanyam - Darbar - Adi Halasyanatham - Darbar - Adi Palaya Mam Brhadishvara - Nayaki - Rupakam Pranatartiharam - Nayaki - Adi Rahnganayakam Bhavayeham- Nayaki - Adi Rahngapuravihara - Brndavana Sarahnga - Rupakam Saundararajam Ashraye - Brndavana Sarahnga - Rupakam Svaminathena - Brndavana Sarahnga - Adi Kalabhairavam - Bhairavam - Rupakam Mamava Pattabhirama - Manirahngu - Mishra Capu Dharmasamvardhani- Madhyamavati - Rupakam Pannagashayana - Madhyamavati - Adi Mahatripurasundari - Madhyamavati - Rupakam Shri Rajarajeshvarim - Madhyamavati - Rupakam Kanakasabhapatim - Malavashri - Adi Mahngalambayai Namaste - Malavashri - Jhampa Mahalaksmi Karunarasalahari - Madhavamanohari - Adi Gananayakam Bhajeham Bhaje - Rudrapriya - Adi Tyagesham Bhajare - Rudrapriya - Adi Parashaktim - Rudrapriya - Adi Rudrakopa - Rudrapriya - Rupakam Shivakayarohaneshaya - Rudrapriya - Rupakam Shri Tyagarajasya - Rudrapriya - Mishra Capu Shri Parthasarathina - Shuddha Dhanyashi - Rupakam Subrahmanyena Raksitoham - Shuddha Dhanyashi - Adi Kamaksi Mam Pahi - Shuddhadeshi - Rupakam Ni Sati Daivamu (Telugu Daru) - Shrirahnjani - Rupakam Parvatarajakumari - Shrirahnjani - Adi Balambikaya - Shrirahnjani - Caturashra Ekam Shri Dum Durge - Shrirahnjani - Khanda Ekam Shri Ramacandro - Shrirahnjani - Mishra Capu Abhayambayam Bhaktim Karomi - Sahana - Triputa Ishanadi Shivakaramahnce - Sahana - Rupakam Ramakrsnena - Sahana - Adi Shri Kamalambikayam Bhaktim Karomi - Sahana - Tishra Triputa Tyagarajena - Salagabhairavi - Adi Saindhaviragapriye - Saindhavi - Adi Paradevate Bhaktapujite - Huseni - Adi Shri Kalahastisha - Huseni - Khanda Capu

23. Gaurivelavali - GaurimanohariKaumari Gauri Velavali - Gaurivelavali - Adi Parashakti Ishvari - Gaurivelavali - Adi

24. Viravasantam - VarunapriyaEkamranathaya - Viravasantam - Rupakam Viravasanta Tyagaraja - Viravasantam - Adi

25. Sharavati - MararahnjaniSharavatitata - Sharavati - Rupakam

26. Tarahngini - CarukeshiPalaya Mam Parameshvari - Tarahngini - Rupakam Maye Tvam Yahi - Tarahngini - Adi

27. Saurasena - SarasahngiSaurasenesham Vallisham - Saurasena - Adi

28. Harikedaragaula - HarikambhojiAbhayamba Nayaka Varadayaka - Kedaragaula - Adi Abhayambaya Anyam Na Jane - Kedaragaula - Jhampa Nilakantham Bhajeham - Kedaragaula - Rupakam Nilotpalambikayai - Kedaragaula - Adi Balambikayah - Kedaragaula - Rupakam Tyagarajo - Atana - Rupakam Brahaspate Tarapate - Atana - Tishra Triputa Mahalihngeshvaraya - Athana - Adi Vamahngastitaya - Athana - Khanda Ekam Shri Daksinamurtim - Athana - Khanda Ekam Shri Madhurambikaya - Athana - Mishra Capu Shri Vaidyanatham - Athana - Adi Herambaya - Athana - Rupakam Brhannayaki - Andhali - Adi Ananta Balakrsna - Ishamanohari - Adi Jagadishamanohari - Ishamanohari - Rupakam Shri Gananatham - Ishamanohari - Rupakam Giticakrarathastitayai - Kannada - Mishra Capu Palaya Mam Parvatisha - Kannada - Rupakam Shri Matrbhutam - Kannada - Mishra Capu Dandanathaya - Kamas - Adi Shri Svaminathaya - Kamas - Khanda Capu Sadanane - Kamas - Adi Santanagopalakrsnam - Kamas - Rupakam Sarasadalanayana - Kamas - Triputa Enta Ninne Dhelupudura - Kamas - Tishra Ekam Kamalambikayai Kanakamshukayai - Kambhoji - Khanda Ata Kashi Vishveshvara Ehi - Kambhoji - Ata Kailasanathena - Kambhoji - Mishra Capu Gopalakrsnaya Namaste - Kambhoji - Adi Marakatavallim Manasa - Kambhoji - Adi Shri Valmikalihngam - Kambhoji - Ata Shri Subrahmanyaya Namaste - Kambhoji - Rupakam Sambasadashivaya - Kambhoji - Adi Sarasvati Chayatarahngini - Chayatarahngini - Adi Gahnge Mam Pahi - Juhnjuthi - Khanda Ekam Gajamba Nayako - Juhnjuthi - Mishra Capu Ganesha Kumara - Juhnjuthi - Caturashra Ekam Akhilandeshvari - Jujavanti - Adi Cetas Shri Balakrsnam Bhajare- Jujavanti - Rupakam Shrirama - Jujavanti - Rupakam Madhuramba Samraksatu - Devakriya - Adi Lalitambikam - Devakriya - Adi Shri Guruguha Tarayasumam- Devakriya - Rupakam Shri Vatukanatha - Devakriya - Mishra Capu Sandhya Devim - Devakriya - Adi Mahaganapate Palayasu - Natanarayani - Adi Gajadishadanyam - Natakurahnji - Mishra Capu Parvatikumaram - Natakurahnji - Rupakam Balambikayai - Natakurahnji - Rupakam Budham Ashrayami- Natakurahnji - Mishra Jhampa Shivakamipatim - Natakurahnji - Adi Nilotpalamba Jayati - Narayanagaula - Mishra Capu Shri Ramam Ravikulabdhi - Narayanagaula - Adi Guruguhadanyam - Balahamsa - Jhampa Mamava Raghuvira - Mahuri - Mishra Capu Abhayambikayai Ashvarudhayai- Yadukulakambhoji - Rupakam (2 Kalai) Tyagarajam Bhajare - Yadukulakambhoji - Mishra Capu Divakaratanujam Shanaishcaram- Yadukulakambhoji - Caturashra Ekam Annapurne Vishalaksi - Sama - Adi Guruguhaya - Sama - Adi Tripurasundari - Sama - Rupakam Parvatavardhani - Sama - Adi Ahngarakam Ashrayami Aham- Surati - Rupakam Govindarajaya Namaste - Surati - Rupakam Balakucambike - Surati - Rupakam Balasubrahmanyam - Surati - Adi Lalitaparameshvari - Surati - Adi Shri Vahncanatha - Surati - Adi Shri Vehnkatagirisham - Surati - Adi

29. DhirashahnkarabharanamAksayalihngavibho - Shahnkarabharanam - Mishra Capu Gajananaya Namaste - Shahnkarabharanam - Rupakam Girijayajaya Abhayamibikaya - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Tarakeshvara - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Daksinamurte - Shahnkarabharanam - Mishra Jhampa Nagalihngam Bhajeham - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Pavanatmajam - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Brhadishvaraya - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Shri Kamalambikaya Kataksitoham- Shahnkarabharanam - Rupakam Shri Venugopalam - Shahnkarabharanam - Rupakam Sadashivamupasmahe - Shahnkarabharanam - Adi Sundareshvaraya - Shahnkarabharanam - Rupakam Shahnkarabharanam Nottusvara: Ahnjaneyam - Tishra Ekam Kamalasana - Caturashra Ekam Kahncisham - Tishra Ekam Guruguha Sarasija - Caturashra Ekam Guruguhapadapahnkaja - Tishra Ekam Gurumurte - Rupakam Cintayeham Sada - Caturashra Ekam Jagadisha - Caturashra Ekam Dasharathe - Tishra Ekam Dinabandho - Tishra Ekam Pahnkajamukha - Tishra Ekam Paradevata - Tishram Paradevate - Rupakam Parvatipate - Caturashra Ekam Pahi Durge - Caturashra Ekam Pahi Mam - Tishra Ekam Pitavarnam - Tishra Ekam Maye Citkale - Tishra Ekam Mucukundavarada - Tishra Ekam Rajivalocanam - Tishra Ekam Rama Janardana - Tishra Ekam Ramacandram - Caturashra Ekam Vande Minaksi - Caturashra Ekam Varadaraja Pahi - Tishra Ekam Varashivabalam - Caturashra Ekam Vagdevi - Caturashra Ekam Shaktisahita - Tishra Ekam Shahnkaravara - Rupakam Shaurividhi Nute - Caturashra Ekam Shyamale Minaksi - Caturashra Ekam Shri Shahnkara - Tishram Sakalasuravinuta - Caturashra Ekam Sadashiva Jaye - Caturashra Ekam Santatam Govindarajam - Tishra Ekam Santatam Pahimam - Tishra Ekam Santanasaubhagya - Tishra Ekam Samaganapriye - Caturashra Ekam Subrahmanyam - Caturashra Ekam Somaskandam - Tishra Ekam He Maye - Tishra Ekam Akhilandeshvaryai - Arabhi - Adi Adipurishvaram - Arabhi - Adi Ganarajena - Arabhi - Mishra Capu Gaurishaya Namaste - Arabhi - Triputa Marakoti Koti Lavanya - Arabhi - Jhampa Shivakameshvaram - Arabhi - Adi Shri Sarasvati Namostute - Arabhi - Rupakam Shvetaranyeshvaram - Arabhi - Adi Shri Venugopala - Kurahnji - Jhampa Ambikaya Abhayambikaya- Kedaram - Adi Anandanatanaprakasham - Kedaram - Mishra Capu Cidambara Natarajam - Kedaram - Adi Kumbheshvaraya - Kedaram - Rupakam Ksitijaramanam - Devagandhari - Adi Vadanyeshvaram - Devagandhari - Adi Shalivatishvaram - Devagandhari - Adi Shri Minambikayah - Devagandhari - Rupakam Amba Nilayataksi - Nilambari - Adi Tyagarajam Bhajeham - Nilambari - Rupakam Nilahngam - Nilambari - Khanda Ekam Siddhishvaraya - Nilambari - Mishra Capu Hastivadanaya Namastubhyam - Navaroj - Mishra Capu Brhadishvaram Bhajare - Nagadhvani - Adi Shahnkaranarayanam - Narayanadeshaksi - Adi Mahisasuramardinim - Narayani - Mishra Capu Shahnkhacakragadha Panim - Purnacandrika - Rupakam Shri Rajarajeshvari - Purnacandrika - Adi Shri Rahnganathamupasmahe - Purnacandrika - Adi Nilotpalambikayam - Purvagaula - Rupakam Ekadantam Bhajeham - Bilahari - Mishra Capu Kamaksi Varalaksmi - Bilahari - Adi Shri Balasubrahmanyagaccha - Bilahari - Mishra Capu Shri Madhurapuriviharini - Bilahari - Rupakam Shri Sambashivam - Bilahari - Adi Hatakeshvara - Bilahari - Rupakam Tyagarajaya Namaste - Begada - Rupakam Madhurambayah - Begada - Mishra Capu Vallabhanayakasya Bhakto - Begada - Rupakam Shri Matah Shivavamahnge - Begada - Adi Somasundareshvaram - Shuddhavasantam - Adi Sarasvati Manohari Shahnkari - Sarasvatimanohari - Adi Parvatipatim - Hamsadhvani - Adi Vatapi Ganapatim Bhajeham - Hamsadhvani - Adi

30. Nagabharanam - NaganandiniNagabharanam - Nagabharanam - Adi Pranatartiharaya - Samanta - Adi Vishvanathena - Samanta - Adi

31. Kalavati - YagapriyaKalavati Kamalasana Yuvati - Kalavati - Adi

32. Ragacudamani - RagavardhaniShvetaganapatim - Ragacudamani - Triputa

33. Gahngatarahngini - GahngeyabhusaniVaradaraja Vava Vahncitadhika - Gahngatarahngini - Rupakam Kahnjadalayataksi Kamaksi Kamalamanohari Tripurasundari - Manohari - Adi Shahnkaramabhiramimanoharam - Manohari - Rupakam

34. Bhogachayanata - VagadishvariBhogachayanatakapriye - Bhogachayanata - Adi

35. Shailadeshaksi - ShuliniShailarajakumari - Shailadeshaksi - Adi Shri Shulinim Shri Tapalini - Shailadeshaksi - Adi

36. Calanata - CalanataParameshvara Jagadishvara - Calanata - Adi Pavanatmajagaccha - Calanata - Jhampa Mahaganapatim Manasa Smarami - Calanata - Caturashra Ekam Svaminatha Paripalayasumam - Calanata - Adi Sakala Sadanakela - Nata

37. Saugandini - SalagamKamakotipithavasini - Saugandini - Adi

38. Jaganmohini - JalarnavamShri Vidya Rajagopalam - Jaganmohini - Tishra Ekam

39. Dhalivarali - JhalavaraliMamava Minaksi - Varali - Mishra Capu Lambodaraya - Varali - Khanda Capu Shesacalanayakam - Varali - Rupakam

40. Nabhomani - NavanitamNabhomani Candrahni Nayanam - Nabhomani - Mishra Capu Shri Nathasodarim - Nabhomani - Rupakam

41. Kumbhini - PavaniSaccidanandamaya - Kumbhini - Adi

42. Ravikriya - RaghupriyaHimagirikumari Ishvari - Ravikriya - Adi

43. Girvani - GavambodhiNamonamaste Girvani - Girvani - Mishra Capu

44. Bhavani - BhavapriyaJayati Shiva Bhavani - Bhavani - Rupakam

45. Shivapantuvarali - ShubhapantuvaraliPashupatishvaram - Shivapantuvarali - Adi Shri Satyanarayanam - Shivapantuvarali - Rupakam Sadashivena - Sindhuramakriya - Adi Bhagavatishvaram - Shubhapantuvarali - Adi

46. Stavarajam - SadvidhamarginiMadhurambam Bhajare - Stavarajam - Adi Stavarajadinuta - Stavarajam - Mishra Capu

47. Sauviram - SuvarnahngiSarasa Sauvira - Sauviram - Adi

48. Jivantika - DivyamaniBrhadishakataksena - Jivantika - Rupakam

49. Dhavalahngam - DhavalambariShrhngaradi - Dhavalahngam - Khanda Ekam

50. Namadeshi - NamanarayaniNarmada Kaveri Nilaiye - Namadeshi - Mishra Capu

51. Kashiramakriya - KamavardhiniUccista Ganapatau - Kashiramakriya - Adi Margasahayashvaram - Kashiramakriya - Mishra Capu Ramanatham Bhajeham - Kashiramakriya - Rupakam Vishalaksim Vishveshim - Kashiramakriya - Triputa Shri Sundararajam - Kashiramakriya - Adi Senapate - Kashiramakriya - Adi Arddhanarishvaram - Kumudakriya - Rupakam

52. Ramamanohari - RamapriyaMatahngi Shriraja - Ramamanohari - Rupakam Shrhngarashaktyayudha - Ramamanohari - Jhampa Smaramyaham Sada Rahum - Ramamanohari - Rupakam

53. Gamakakriya - GamanashramaEkamranatham - Gamakakriya - Adi Kashi Vishalaksim - Gamakakriya - Rupakam Tiruvatishvaram - Gamakakriya - Rupakam Navaratnamalinim - Gamakakriya - Khanda Ekam Minaksi Me Mudam Dehi - Gamakakriya - Adi

54. Vamshavati - VishvambariBhaktavatsalam - Vamshavati - Adi Vamshavati - Vamshavati - Adi

55. Shyamalam - ShyamalahngiShyamalahngi - Shyamalam - Adi

56. Camaram - ShanmukhapriyaEkamreshanayakim - Camaram - Adi Sadashraye Abhayambike - Camaram - Rupakam Siddhivinayakam Anisham- Camaram - Rupakam Mahasuram Ketumaham<- Camaram/Rupakam

57. Sumadyuti - SimhendramadhyamamKamaksi Kamakoti Pithavasini - Sumadyuti - Rupakam Nilacalanatham - Sumadyuti - Adi Pamarajanapalini - Sumadyuti - Rupakam Shaileshvaram - Sumadyuti - Adi

58. Deshisimharavam - HemavatiMadhurambikayam - Deshisimharavam - Rupakam Shri Kantimatim - Deshisimharavam - Adi Hariyuvatim Haimavatim - Deshisimharavam - Rupakam

59. Dhamavati - DharmavatiParandhamavati Yuvati- Dhamavati - Rupakam Ramacandrasya - Dhamavati - Adi

60. Nisadam - NitimatiNisadadi Deshadhipatinuta - Nisadam - Mishra Capu

61. Kuntalam - KantamaniShri Sugandhikuntalambike - Kuntalam - Rupakam

62. Ratipriya - RishabhapriyaMararatipriyam Bhaktipriyam - Ratipriya - Adi

63. Gitapriya - LatahngiSadhujanavinutam - Gitapriya - Triputa

64. Bhusavati - VacaspatiAbhiramim - Bhusavati - Rupakam Parvatishvarena - Bhusavati - Adi Bhusavatim - Bhusavati - Rupakam

65. Shantakalyani - MecakalyaniAbhayamba Jagadamba Raksatu - Kalyani - Adi (2 Kalai) Kamalambam Bhajare - Kalyani - Adi Kamaksim Kalyanim - Kalyani - Rupakam Kumbheshvaraya - Kalyani - Mishra Capu Kumbheshvarena Samraksitoham - Kalyani - Adi Ganapate - Kalyani - Rupakam Jhnanaprasunambike - Kalyani - Rupakam Brahmavidyambike - Kalyani - Adi Bhajare Re Citta - Kalyani - Mishra Capu Shivakameshvarim Cintayeham - Kalyani - Adi Shri Mahngalambike - Kalyani - Ata Shri Madhurambike - Kalyani - Khanda Capu Kadambaripriyayai - Mohanam - Mishra Capu Gopika Manoharam - Mohanam - Rupakam Narasimha Agaccha - Mohanam - Mishra Capu Nagalihngam Namami - Mohanam - Adi Pahi Mam Parvati - Mohanam - Rupakam Raktaganapatim - Mohanam - Adi Rajagopalam - Mohanam - Rupakam Jambupate - Yamunakalyani - Rupakam Nandagopala Mukundagokul - Yamunakalyani - Adi Paramashivatmajam - Yamunakalyani - Adi Arunacalanatham - Sarahnga - Rupakam Tyagaraje Krtyakrtyam - Sarahnga - Jhampa Varadarajamupasmahe - Sarahnga - Rupakam Sarahngaragapriye - Sarahnga - Mishra Capu Parimalarahnganatham - Hamirkalyani - Rupakam Puraharanandana - Hamirkalyani - Adi

66. Caturahngini - CitrambariEkamranatheshvarena - Caturahngini - Adi Guruguha Bhavantarahnginim - Caturahngini - Mishra Capu Anandamrtakarsini Amrtavarsini - Amrtavarsini - Adi Himagirikumari - Amrtavarsini - Adi

67. Santanamahnjari - SucaritramSantanamahnjari - Santanamahnjari - Adi

68. Jyoti Raga - JyotisvarupiniParamjyotismati Parvati - Jyoti - Adi Rame Bharatapalita - Jyoti - Khanda Capu

69. Dhautapahncamam - DhatuvardhaniMatahngi Marakatahngi - Dhautapahncamam - Rupakam

70. Nasamani - NasikabhusaniShri Krsno Mam Raksatu - Nasamani - Rupakam Shri Rama Sarasvatisevitam - Nasamani - Adi

71. Kusumakaram - KosalamKusumakarashobhita - Kusumakaram - Rupakam

72. Rasamahnjari - RasikapriyaShrhngararasamahnjarim - Rasamahnjari - Rupakam

Origins of Carnatic Music

Origins of Carnatic Music

It is thought that Carnatic Music originated from the Vedas (the most important Hindu scriptures), although it is very difficult to pin point a time within history that Carnatic Music began to develop into the form we know today. The Sama-Veda (one of the four volumes of the Holy Scriptures the others being: the Rig-Veda, the Yajur-Veda and the Artharva-Veda) is thought to have laid the foundations for Indian music for it is within this volume that many of the hymns and prayers in the Rig-Veda were set to musical tunes. The seven swara system in Carnatic music is also Vedic in origin.
In line with most other aspects of Indian culture it is also thought that there are many divine origins in Carnatic Music. Carnatic Music is very much associated with Hinduism (the dominant religion in India) with many songs praising a God or Goddess. Some Gods and Goddesses are also linked to certain instruments e.g. Krishna and the flute and Saraswathi and the veena. Many literary epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana also contain references to Carnatic Music. Perhaps most significantly, the Yajnavalkya Smriti (one of the three main Smritis, written by sage Yajnavalkya of Mithila) says:

"Veena vadhana tathvangna sruti, jathi, visartha talanjaaprayasena moksha margam niyachathi"

("The one who is well versed in veena, one who has the knowledge of srutis and one who is adept in tala, attains salvation without doubt.")

Many aspects of Carnatic music are also thought to be derived from Ancient Tamil Music. Pann (the melodic mode which has been used by Tamil people since Ancient times) is thought to be the precursor to the raga system that is found today in Carnatic Music. The rhythmic meters found in Thirupugzh, for example, bear a resemblance to talas that are used today. Tamil works like Silappadikaram, Tolkappiam and other Sangam literature works give old Dravidian names for the seven notes in the octave, and describe how new scales can be developed by the modal shift of tonic (shifting the reference Shadja) from an existing scale.