Hey music learners! Ever wondered why the Veena, our beloved "Queen of Instruments," appears so frequently in ancient Indian temples and sculptures? It's not just because it's a beautiful instrument; its presence is steeped in rich symbolism, offering profound insights into spirituality, knowledge, and the very fabric of the cosmos. As musicians, we connect with the Veena through its sound, its gamakas , and its intricate melodies. But when you see it carved in stone, held by

For a student of the Carnatic Veena , the journey from producing a simple note to executing a divine Gamaka  (oscillation) lies in the fingertips. Unlike many string instruments where the string is simply pressed down, the Veena requires you to pull  the string across the fret to reach higher pitches. This requires a specialized "Sadhaka" (disciplined practice) routine aimed at building raw finger strength and developing the protective callouses necessary for sustained playin

Exploring a Jathiswaram in Raga Kalyani  is a rite of passage for every Carnatic music student. It is where mathematical precision meets the majestic, auspicious glow of one of the most beloved Ragas in the system. If you are learning this on the Veena , you are in for a treat. The Veena’s ability to produce rich oscillations (Gamakams) makes Kalyani truly shine. Understanding Raga Kalyani Kalyani is the 65th Melakarta raga. It is a Prati Madhyama  raga, meaning it uses the s