Uma Kumar

A Comprehensive Analysis of Sarasvatī Kṛtis by Prof. R. Visweswaran

In the Nadīstuti Sūktās of Vedic scriptures, Goddess Sarasvatī emerged as the divine river of consciousness and enlightenment, nourishing the genesis of Vedic Sanskrit civilisation. This study conducts an in-depth analysis of eleven Sarasvatī kṛtis composed by Saṅgīta Chūḍāmaṇi Prof. R. Visweswaran to examine their musical and lyrical intricacies. The research employs systematic musicological analysis to investigate the employment of rāgas ranging from mēḷa, auḍava, vakra, rakti, and Hindustānī classifications, alongside their corresponding tāḷās. Each composition is analysed for its structural elements, including rāga mudrās, svarākṣarās, chiṭṭe svarās, and madhyamakāla sāhityās, while examining the scholarly integration of the Sanskrit and Telugu languages. The study reveals how these compositions beautifully weave together Vedic philosophical concepts with contemporary musical expression, demonstrating Prof. Visweswaran's mastery in creating devotional music that bridges ancient wisdom with modern artistic sensibilities. The findings indicate that these kṛtis serve as vehicles for spiritual contemplation while showcasing sophisticated musical craftsmanship, offering contemporary artists profound scope for both devotional expression and technical exploration in Carnatic music performance.