By Jyothi
Culture starts at home, and for many Indian families, home is where Carnatic music thrives. In a saying that resonates deeply, “It takes a village to raise a child,” families of Indian heritage in Melbourne, Australia, often find that Carnatic music plays an essential part in shaping that village. For many Indian-origin people in the diaspora, it’s not just a tradition but a way of life, one that cultivates gratitude, discipline, and a deep sense of cultural identity from a young age.
For the uninitiated, Carnatic music is a classical music tradition from India, known for its intricate compositions, melodic ragas, and rhythmic talas. It emphasises both vocal and instrumental forms, with the mridangam, violin, and veena being some of the key instruments. As this music tradition is rooted deeply in devotion and spirituality, it often features lyrical compositions dedicated to Hindu deities, with themes of love, devotion, and philosophy.
From the earliest years, children who are fortunate enough to engage in Carnatic music lessons develop a profound sense of appreciation for their Indian roots. The intricate patterns of this ancient musical tradition are not dissimilar to the design frameworks engineers study – meticulously crafted, with each raga tied to a specific mood or state of mind.
In many ways, Carnatic music can serve as a balm for the emotional and psychological challenges faced in today’s world. Whether it’s through vocal lessons or learning to play an instrument, this art form can be a lifelong companion, a precious gift parents can pass on to their children.
For families living abroad, the role of Carnatic music becomes even more significant. Encouraging young adults and teenagers to engage with this rich tradition helps them unlock not only the intellectual and emotional benefits of music but also the deep sense of devotion, or bhakti, that it fosters.
In Melbourne, music teachers like Mrs Vandana and Guru Murali Kumar stand as pillars of the community, dedicating their lives to preserving this centuries-old tradition.
For over two decades, the couple has been serving the city’s Indian diaspora through their RaagaSudha Academy of Music. They teach not just the technical aspects of Carnatic music but also the discipline, cultural values, and devotion that come with it. Their work goes beyond music lessons – it is a form of mentorship, a continuation of the guru-shishya (teacher-student) relationship, which is especially vital for families living far from their extended support systems.
Performing on stage is more than just a showcase of musical talent; it instils a sense of accomplishment in children from a young age. Carnatic music’s cultural gatherings, where families come together, also help children develop interpersonal skills and learn social etiquette – qualities that will serve them well in life.
Melbourne’s vibrant Carnatic music scene owes its strength to passionate teachers and schools that nurture this tradition with unwavering dedication. Thousands of families across the city reap the benefits of this musical heritage, building a home away from home through the sounds of ragas and keerthanas.
Our own family was fortunate enough to be introduced to violin maestro Guru Murali Kumar and the RaagaSudha Academy through one of Melbourne’s most anticipated annual events, FIMDV. Both of my boys now study violin and vocals under Guru Murali Kumar and his wife, Mrs Vandana. In fact, my husband and I have also rekindled our childhood passion for learning keerthanas – devotional songs set to popular ragas. For over six years, this musical journey has become an ongoing bond, enriching our lives and connecting us more deeply with our cultural roots.
Contributing Author: Jyothi, an IT consultant based in Melbourne, specialises in providing technological solutions and is actively involved in promoting Indian traditions among young children, fostering a deep sense of cultural identity from an early age.
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