Embassy of India presents
Folding of both hands in the logo symbolise Yoga, the union, which reflects the union of individual consciousness with that of universal consciousness, a perfect harmony between mind & body, man & nature; the holistic approach to health & well being. The brown leave symbolise the Earth element, the green leave symbolise the nature, blue symbolise the water element, brightness symbolise the fire element and the Sun symbolise the source of energy and inspiration. The logo reflects harmony and peace for the humanity, which is the essence of Yoga.
INTERVIEW
Celebrating the True Spirit of Yoga H.E. NARINDER CHAUHAN Ambassador of India
cialisation of yoga and yogic therapies, as well as inaccurate teachings, the IDY will be celebrated in a true spirit of this ancient Indian tradition. Preparation for the finale on 21st June in Serbia, and elsewhere throughout the world, has already began. Here it will be celebrated through workshops on Yoga, Ayurveda & Homeopathy, coordinated by the Indian Embassy with the Serbian Ministry of Health. • How will you celebrate 21st June, the Int’l Day of Yoga (IDY) in Serbia? - Yoga is very popular in Serbia, with several streams of yoga practiced here. As such, there are plans to celebrate IDY in a grand way across Serbia, preparations for which have already begun.
Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, recently recognised by the UN, by proclaiming the International Day of Yoga, to be celebrated around the globe on 21st June. With the help of Yoga experts, a Yoga Protocol has been drawn up listing the set of recommended exercises that will be performed all over the world, including in Serbia
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nternational Day of Yoga, introduced by the United Nations as of this year, is to remind the world about the true nature of yoga as a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science 4 which focuses on bringing harmony be| INTERNATIONAL GERMANY 2012 tween mind and body. Contrary to the sad commer-
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• How Serbia supported the declaration of June 21 as the International Day of Yoga? - The esteemed Government of Serbia co-sponsored the Resolution in the United Nations to declare June 21 as the International Day of Yoga and Honorable Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi addressed a warm letter of thanks to the Honorable Prime Minister of Serbia H.E. Mr. Aleksandar Vučić. The Government of Serbia, through its Ministry of Youth and Sports, have extended support for the joint celebration of the IDY in Serbia. Similar support has been received from the UN Office in Serbia. We have also received valuable support from various municipalities and grass-roots organizations all across Serbia. • What kind of programme is the Indian Embassy preparing for this occasion in June? - Yoga, Ayurveda & Homeopathy are recognised in Serbian law. Local wisdom dictates that we cel-
ebrate IDY in a wholesome manner by organising workshops in all these three disciplines, which we are coordinating with the Serbian Ministry of Health. With the help of Indian Yoga experts, a Yoga Protocol has been drawn up listing the set of recommended exercises that will be performed all over the world. Training camps will begin from 21st May. The common Yoga Protocol has been circulated to all Yoga Schools, local authorities and Schools and Colleges so that training can begin for the finale on 21st June at 7am all over Serbia. For further details please see our facebook https://www.facebook. com/IndiaInSerbia. An Indian yoga instructor will do road shows in Serbia from June 15-22 to provide training and guidance. • How would you celebrate IDY in India? - The new Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) is the Nodal Agency responsible for coordinating various activities in celebration of International Yoga Day. On 10th April 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the www.idayofyoga.org website at UNESCO. A logo for the International Day for Yoga was launched by our Minister for External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj, on 29th April, which reflects harmony and peace for humanity, which is the essence of yoga. The Government has decided to conduct a one-month Yoga Camp in India to celebrate ‘International Day of Yoga’ from 21st May to 21st June 2015, in order to raise awareness and promote the health benefits of Yoga. • How Yoga is observed in the Indian tradition and culture, and which schools are the most important? - According to Indian traditions, Yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. According to Yogic scriptures, the practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness. According to modern scientists, one who experiences the oneness of existence is said to be ‘in Yoga’ and is termed as a yogi, who has attained a state of freedom, referred to as mukti, nirvana or moksha. “Yoga” also refers to an inner science comprising a variety of methods through which human beings can achieve union between the body and mind to attain self-realisation. Yoga works on the level of one’s body, mind, emotion and energy. This has given rise to four broad classifications of Yoga: Karma Yoga, where
we utilise the body; Jnana Yoga, where we utilise the mind; Bhakti Yoga, where we utilise the emotion, and Kriya Yoga, where we utilise energy. The different philosophies, traditions, lineages and guru-shishya paramparas of Yoga led to the emergence of different traditional schools. These include Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Patanjala Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Dhyana Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Laya Yoga, Raja Yoga, Jain Yoga, Bouddha Yoga etc. The widely practiced Yoga sadhanas are: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi, Bandhas and Mudras, Shatkarmas, Yuktahara, Mantra-japa, Yukta-karma etc. • What is India doing to maintain ownership of Yoga? - Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition. Once you give something as a gift, you don’t ask for it to be returned to you. Sadly, the commoditisation of yoga and yogic therapies, as well as inaccurate teachings by some improperly trained instructors, has resulted in exploitation of Yoga for commercial purposes. To properly reclaim its spiritual inheritance and restore Yoga to its original form, the Indian government has created a separate Ministry for Yoga which will collaborate with the Ministry of Human Resources and Development to promote institutional tie-ups at the international level to further encourage the study and practice of yoga in foreign universities. The practice of yoga will be encouraged in Indian schools to ensure the physical and mental well-being of young Indians, which will let Indians lead by example. And, moreover, Yoga is under the ownership of every individual who deals with it, though there are observers who think the true nature of Yoga could be lost in this way. The true nature of Yoga is that it is a living system whose most important feature is the development of diversity. To understand this, let us look at what is happening in this sense in Serbia. Here, four schools of Yoga are present: Hatha Yoga, Vinnyasa Yoga, Power Yoga, Pilates Yoga. Even if we take the case of Hatha Yoga only, which is the most famous in Serbia, as far as I know, you have eleven of its modifications: Satyananda Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Maharishi Yoga, Sivananda Yoga, Yoga in Daily Life, Art of Living, Iyengar Yoga, Yoga Yogananda, Shadow Yoga…
SHRIPAD NAIK
Indian Minister for Yoga and Traditional Medicine
TO PROPERLY RECLAIM ITS SPIRITUAL INHERITANCE AND RESTORE YOGA TO ITS ORIGINAL FORM, THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT HAS CREATED A SEPARATE MINISTRY FOR YOGA
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YOGA IS VERY POPULAR IN SERBIA, THUS THERE ARE PLANS TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA IN A GRAND WAY ACROSS SERBIA, PREPARATIONS FOR WHICH HAVE ALREADY BEGUN
• Some say that India needs to make its own brand from Yoga, to emphasise its roots, to introduce codification, standardisation, to make an educational system and build a scientific background behind it. What is your stance? - The Indian government has established an independent Ministry for Yoga-related affairs to guide its study in the right direction. Experts say that when we talk about the scientific foundation of Yoga it is advisable to keep in mind that codification and standardisation result from what may be called the science of sensory experience. But, apart from sensory experience, there is also the aspect of mental and spiritual experience. Given that Yoga leads to the unification of individual consciousness with Universal Consciousness, it could be examined primarily from the standpoint of the science of spiritual experience. And this standpoint does not lead to the establishment of a brand primarily because, compared to the logic of “branding”, it is translogical. And since the standpoint on spiritual science is non-dual, or holistic, it does not lead to the idea of a brand owner and his customers, nor to the codification and standardisation of their activities and relationships. • Is the marketing approach against or in favour of the true spirit of Yoga? - Over the years, Yoga has gained admiration and captured peoples’ imagination across the world, and thus has become a source of India’s soft power. The overwhelming number of yoga schools in America and Europe, and many parts of Asia, are a testimony to the popularity of India’s rich cultural traditions. Yoga is also part of the curriculum at some educational institutions in Europe and America. Yoga has long been popular with celebrities as well. The true spirit of Yoga is in its universality and for this very reason Yoga has the ability to develop in various civilisational frames. And, certainly, the commercialisation that you mention has nothing to do with Yoga, but rather with modern civilisation. Overall, I feel that Yoga is becoming a significant cultural export from India. Yoga is an Indian gift to the world – a key to living longer, better and happier. Let humanity celebrate this. • How do you rate bilateral relations between India and Serbia? - Bilateral relations continue to be exceptional. The
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joint heritage of the Non-Aligned Movement is an abiding bond. After India’s independence from colonial rule in 1947, Serbia played a significant role in India’s nation building, including in the areas of politics, defence, bio-medicine and agriculture. It is agreed by the Serbian leadership that the relations are at the level of “mutual respect, trust and sincere political friendship”. • What are the most important bonds that Serbia and India have managed to build in spite of different cultural and historical mindsets? - Indian-Serbian relations are developing in a multisectoral manner. We continue to support each other on issues of core interest. Indian has consistently supported Serbia by opposing the Unilateral Declaration of Independence by Kosovo. Serbia has consistently supported India’s international role. Indian culture, including Yoga, is very popular in Serbia. Several Indian TV shows are also broadcast on Serbian TV channels. Indian agri-machinery, such as TAFE, Mahindra & Sonalika, have a fine reputation here. Indian pharma products, such as Himalaya Herbals, are very popular. Indian industry, such as RITES Ltd. and Tata Power, have visited Serbia for business collaboration. Several Serbian companies have participated in sector-focused trade fairs, such as Aero India, Defexpo, Home Expo, India Engineering Sourcing Show, India International Handwoven Fair, Gurjari etc. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is holding the 2nd India-Central Europe Business Forum (ICEBF)’ from 5th - 6th October 2015 in Bengaluru (India). The areas in focus will be IT & ITES; Services; Urban Infrastructure; Clean & Green Technologies; Life Sciences; Pharmaceuticals; Environmental technologies; R&D; Agri & Food Processing; Auto & Auto Components; and Tourism, among others. Business leaders, CEOs, key policymakers, senior representative of investment promotion agencies, chambers of commerce and Industry, sector-based organisations, state and regional government representatives, think-tanks, cultural creatives etc. have been invited. We look forward to robust participation by Serbian companies and PSUs. Both countries are also looking to broaden the air services agreement to promote tourism. Bollywood is looking seriously at Serbia as a low cost shooting and production base. Shooting for the first IndianSerbian co-production, the film ‘Dev Bhoomi’, has begun in the hilly Indian state of Uttarakhand. We welcome the Government of Serbia’s decision to liberalise visas for Indians, which will further encourage business and tourism. ■
International Day of Yoga A
ddressing the 69th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 27th September 2014, the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, urged the world community to adopt an International Day of Yoga. On 11th December that same year, the 193-member UNGA approved the proposal by consensus with a record 177 countries co-sponsoring a resolution to establish 21st June as “International Day of Yoga”. In its resolution, the UNGA recognised that Yoga provides a holistic approach to health and well-being and wider dissemination of information about the benefits of practicing Yoga for the health of the world population. Yoga also brings harmony in all walks of life and, thus, is known for disease prevention, health promotion and management of many lifestyle-related disorders. Yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning “to join”, “to yoke” or “to unite”. According to Yogic scriptures, the practice of Yoga leads to
the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness. The aim of Yoga practice (sādhana) is to overcome all suffering, thereby leading to a sense of freedom in every walk of life, with holistic health, happiness and harmony. The science of Yoga has origins dating back thousands of years ago. According to Yogic lore, Shiva was seen as the first yogi or ādiyogi and the first guru or ādiguru. Several thousand years ago, on the banks of lake Kantisarovar in the Himalayas, ādiyogi poured his profound knowledge into the legendary saptarishis or “seven sages”. These sages carried this powerful Yogic science to different parts of the world. Agastya, the saptarishi who travelled across the Indian subcontinent, crafted this culture around a core Yogic way of life. Yoga is widely considered as an “immortal cultural outcome” of the Indus Saraswati Valley Civilisation – dating back to 2700 BC – and has proven itself to cater to both material and spiritual uplift of humanity. Yoga has spread all over the world via the teachings of eminent Yoga masters from ancient times to present day. ■
SHRI NARENDRA MODI Prime Minister of India
"Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature and a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Yoga is not about exercise, but rather discovery of the sense of oneness with ourselves, the world and nature. By changing our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help us deal with climate change. Let us work towards adopting an International Yoga Day," said the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, speaking at the 69th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 27th September 2014. These articles are taken from Common Yoga Protocol, by the Government of India
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ABOUT
The Fundamentals of Yoga "All ancient commentaries on Yoga have stressed that it is essential to work under the direction of a guru"
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oga works on the level of one’s body, mind, emotion and energy. This has given rise to four broad classifications of Yoga: Karma Yoga where we utilise the body; Jnāna Yoga where we utilise the mind; Bhakti Yoga where we utilise the emotion and Kriya Yoga where we utilise the energy. Each system of Yoga we practice falls within the gamut of one or more of these categories. Every individual is a unique combination of these four factors. Only a guru (teacher) can advocate the appropriate combination of the four fundamental paths as is necessary for each seeker.
TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS OF YOGA The different philosophies, traditions, li neages and guru-shishya paramparas of Yoga led to the emergence of different traditional schools. These include Jnāna Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Pātanjala
Yoga, Kunḍ ạ lini Yoga, Haṭha Yoga, Dhyāna Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Laya Yoga, Rāja Yoga, Jain Yoga, Bouddha Yoga etc. Each school has its own approach and practices that lead to the ultimate aim and objectives of Yoga.
General Guidelines for Yoga Practice BEFORE THE PRACTICE A Yoga practitioner should follow the guiding principles given below while performing Yogic practices: • Śauca means cleanliness. It includes cleanliness of surroundings, body and mind. • Yogic practice should be performed in a calm and quiet atmosphere with a relaxed body and mind. • Yogic practice should be
done on an empty stomach or light stomach. Consume small amount of honey in lukewarm water if you feel weak. • Bladder and bowels should be empty before starting •A mattress, Yoga mat, durrie or folded blanket should be used for the practice. •L ight and comfortable cotton clothes are preferred to facilitate easy move-
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ment of the body. • Yoga should not be performed in state of exhaustion, illness, in a hurry or in acute stress conditions. • In case of chronic disease/ pain/ cardiac problems, a physician or a Yoga therapist should be consulted. • Yoga experts should be consulted before doing Yogic practices during pregnancy and menstruation.
DURING THE PRACTICE • Practice sessions should start with a prayer or invocation as it creates a conducive environment to
relax the mind. •Y ogic practices shall be performed slowly, in a relaxed manner, with awareness of the body and breath.
YOGIC PRACTICES FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS The widely practiced Yoga sadhanas are: Yama, Niyama, Āsana, Prānāyāma, Pratyāhara, Dhārana, Dhyāna, Samādhi, Bandhas and Mudras, Shatkarmas, Yuktāhāra, Mantra-japa, Yukta-karma etc. Yamas are restraints and Niyamas are observances. These are considered to be prerequisites for further Yogic practices. Āsanas, capable of bringing about stability of body and mind, “kuryat-tad- asanamsthairyam”, involve adopting various psycho-physical body patterns and giving one an ability to maintain a body position (a stable awareness of one’s structural existence) for a considerable length of time. Prānāyāma consists of developing awareness of one’s breathing followed by willful regulation of respiration as the functional or vital basis of one’s existence. It helps in developing awareness of one’s mind and helps to establish control over the mind. In the initial stages, this is done by developing awareness of the “flow of in-breath and out-breath” (svāsa-prasvāsa) through nostrils, mouth and other body openings, its internal and external pathways and destinations. Later, this phenomenon is modified, through regulated, controlled and monitored inhalation (svāsa) leading to the awareness of the body space getting filled (puraka), the space(s) remaining in a filled state (kumbhaka) and it getting emptied (rechaka) during regulated, controlled and monitored exhalation (prasvāsa). Prat yāhara indicates dissociation of one’s consciousness (withdrawal) from the sense organs
• Do not hold the breath unless it is specially mentioned to do so during the practice. • Breathing should be always through the nostrils • Do not hold body tightly, or jerk the body at any point in time. • Perform the practices according to your own capacity. • It takes some time to get good results, so persistence and regular practice are essential. • There are contra-indications/limitations for each
which connect with the external objects. Dhārana indicates broad based field of attention (inside the body and mind) which is usually understood as concentration. Dhyāna (meditation) is contemplation (focussed attention inside the body and mind) and Samādhi (integration).
Bandhas and Mudras are practices associated with Prānāyāma. They are viewed as the higher yogic practices that mainly adopt certain physical gestures along with control over respiration. This further facilitates control over mind and paves way for higher Yogic attainment. However, the practice of dhyāna, which moves one towards self-realisation and leads one to transcendence, is considered the essence of Yoga Sādhana. Śaṭkarmas are detoxification procedures that are clinical in nature and help to remove the toxins accumulated in the body. Yuktāhāra advocates appropriate food and food habits for healthy living. ■
Yoga practice and such contra-indications should always be kept in mind. • Yoga sessions should end with meditation / deep silence / Śhānti paṭha.
and mind are flexible and well-prepared for practice. A vegetarian diet is usually recommended, and for a person over 30 years, two meals a day should suffice
AFTER PRACTICE • A bath may be taken only 20-30 minutes after practice. •F ood may be consumed only 20-30 minutes after practice.
HOW YOGA CAN HELP Yoga is essentially a path to liberation from all bondage. However, medical research in recent years has uncovered many physical and mental benefits that Yoga offers. A small sampling of research shows that: • Yoga is beneficial for
FOOD FOR THOUGHT A few dietary guidelines can ensure that the body
physical fitness, musculoskeletal functioning and cardio-vascular health. • I t is beneficial in the management of diabetes, respiratory disorders, hypertension, hypotension • Yoga helps to reduce depression, fatigue, anxiety disorders and stress. • Yoga regulates menopausal symptoms. • Yoga is a process of creating a body and mind that are stepping-stones, not hurdles, to an exuberant and fulfilling life.
YOGA WORKS ON THE LEVEL OF ONE'S BODY, MIND, EMOTION AND ENERGY
YOGA CENTRES IN SERBIA Yoga Alliance, Serbia (www.jogaalijansasrbije.org)
Yoga Federation of Serbia (www.yogasavezsrbije.com)
Yoga in Daily Life (novisad@yogaindailylife.org)
Vidya Yoga (dragan@vidyayoga.net)
Bihar Yoga Club (yogabelgrade@gmail.com)
Bikram Yoga (studio@bikramyoga.rs)
Hipokrat Yoga Studio (info@hipokrat.co.rs)
HOMEOPATHY CENTRES IN SERBIA: Association for Classical Homeopathy “Hahnemann” (homeons@gmail.com)
Homeopathy Center Simillimum (simillimumbgd@gmail.com)
Association Imperial (Imperial.homeopatija@gmail.com)
Association for Classical Homeopathy “Boenninghausen” (Homeopatija.boenninghausen@gmail. com/ Generix.ph@gmail.com)
Homeopathy Centre, Jevremovac (irena@homeopata.rs/irenasto@ sbb.rs)
AYURVEDA CENTRES IN SERBIA: Serbian Association for Ayurveda “Meharishi College for Perfect Health” (ajurved@gmail.com)
Ayurvedia Association "LOTOS” (lotosajurveda@gmail.com)
Parts of these articles are taken from Common Yoga Protocol, by the Government of India
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HERITAGE
Literary Treasures of Indian Yoga While yoga traces its origins to the Vedas, numerous books have made it popular globally
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he credit for introducing and creating a special place for yoga in the hearts of global citizens goes to Swami Vivekananda who penned books on all four forms of yoga – karma yoga (yoga of action), jnana yoga (yoga of knowledge), raja yoga (yoga of meditation) and bhakti yoga (yoga of devotion). Yoga traces its origin to the Vedas. Written in Sanskrit, the Vedas are among the oldest literature in the world. Over the years, numerous texts have been written, born out of the experience of yogis, practitioners of yoga. Yoga Sutra It is to the credit of great sage Patanjali that an exclusive text for yoga came into existence. It is in sutra form of literature and hence popularly known as Yoga Sutra. Patanjali is believed to have walked the earth between 150 BCE and 450CE, and it is considered as the incarnation of the serpent lord Adishesha and held in high reverence. There are 195 sutras which have been divided into four sec-
Before yoga is taught the teacher should consider the time, surrounding,age, nature of employment, energy and strength of the person and his power of comprehension. The practice of yoga must be done by a learned person who has self control. -Yoga Rahasya
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tions. Each section is called pada. In this text, yoga is defined as “the ability to direct the mind towards a chosen object and sustain the focus without any distractions.” The central message of Yoga Sutra: “Let us take steps to deal with the pain yet to come.” It shows a way through yoga to live a healthy and happy life and to manage stress. It lists a number of tools for practice, the famous being the ‘light-limbed path of yoga’. The eight limbs are yama (external disciplines), niyama (internal disciplines), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), pratyahara (control of senses), dharaea (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (total integration). Hatha Yoga Pradipika This text gives the teachings of Lord Shiva to Parvati on yoga. This tradition is called Hatha Yoga. In text form, it comprises verses in Sanskrit authored by Yogi Svatmarama. There are in total 389 verses that have been divided into four chapters. Hatha yoga means ‘ joining of two forces called ha and tha’. They are also known as prana and apana which flow in the two nadis called ida and pingala. It is through the practice of pranayama with the three bandhas that this union is achieved. The practitioner ultimately achieves the highest state of mind called samadhi. The practice for achieving this state includes asana, pranayama, mudhra and nadanusandana.
Praeayama without the three bandhas (jalandhara, uddeyana, and mula bandhas) is of no use if it is not practiced properly. It may give rise to disease. -Yoga Rahasya
Yoga Yajnavalkya Saahita The teachings on yoga by great sage Yajnavalkya to his wife and disciple Gargi are recorded in this text. It has 462 verses divided into 12 chapters or adhyayas. According to this text, the union of jivatma (individual soul) with paramatma (universal consciousness) is yoga which is called samadhi. This is achieved through ashtanga yoga consisting of yama (external disciplines), niyama (internal disciplines), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), pratyahara (control of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (total integration). This text emphasises the importance of living a disciplined life according to the ancient scriptures apart from the practice of yoga to achieve desired results. Yoga Rahasya Yoga Rahasya, The Secrets of Yoga is in as Sanskrit verses. Its teachings are attributed to Sage Nathamuni, a south Indian Vaishnavite saint. The text is believed to have been lost over time and revived by Yogi Tirumala Krishnamacharya (18881989), acclaimed as Father of Modern Day Yoga nationally and internationally. Born in Karnataka, he trekked the Himalayas to reach Kailash Manasarovar and learned under Yogi Ramamohana Brahmachari. His text has 267 verses called shlokas and is divided into four chapters – introduction, application, reflection and the parts and whole of man... Prakaranaadhyaya: The first three verses are a prayer to the teachers of this lineage. The teachings start with the introduction of two types of yoga – bhakti yoga (path of devotion) and prapatti yoga (path of surrender). Bhakti yoga is the eightlimbed yoga, while prapatti yoga is six-limbed. The eight limbs of bhakti yoga are yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharaea, dhyana and samadhi. After mentioning the six limbs of surrender (prapatti), the author begins the work stating:
“Women are said to be specially qualified for the practice of yoga.” Diseases and ailments of the mind and body are of three kinds – adhyatmika, adhibautika and adhidaivika. The author gives an elaborate treatment of Pranayama and the use of breathing in asanas. Asanas are described with variations and shown to play a key role in pranayama. Viniyogadhyaya: The viniyogadhyaya deals with yoga in the order of production, maintenance and destruction. Some asanas are to be done before one completes the 25th year. Restrictions on the type of food are also indicated. Treatment of physical ailments is dealt with. Breathing pattern is indicated to overcome certain ailments. Duration and nature of pranayama are also to be studied by the preceptor and taught to the student.
THERE ARE A TOTAL OF 389 VERSES THAT HAVE BEEN DIVIDED INTO FOUR CHAPTERS
Vimarshanaadhyaya: Vimarcanadhyaya deals with the need to be disciplined while undertaking yogic practices. The unsteady nature of the mind and body is attributed to wrong food habits and have to be corrected by meditating upon god and worshipping Him. The author describes the asanas and food which a pregnant woman should have according to her circumstances. Pranayama is the only remedy for them to get rid of ailments. Kaladhyaya: What makes a person treat certain matters as favourable or otherwise to him is discussed in Kaladhyaya. A detailed account is given about human behaviour which leads men astray. Man has to guard himself from pitfalls. ■
Victory to Nathamuni who composed Nyayatattva. Victory to the great Yogi who expounded the Yogarahasya. Victory to the Maharni who had the vision of the three tattvas (prakati, puruna and Ecvara). Victory to the chief among the munis who is the source of inspiration for all bhaktas.
During the practice of the asanas, one must regulate the inhalation, exhalation and retention of the breath. This depend on the student`s capacity. Slow breathing following the Ujjae technique must be taught.
Yoga karma is known to have three sections. They are called shrishtikrama, sthitikrama and antakrama. The eight angas of yoga must always be applied according to this classification done by the learned. -Yoga Rahasya
While practicing asanas, breathing should be under one`s control. The mind must follow the breath. -Yoga Rahasya
This article is taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by S Sridharan
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EXPLORE
Hemis Festival During Hemis Festival, Ladakh comes alive with dances and colourful celebrations. The religious mask dance remains the centre of attraction
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ynonymous with peace, tranquility and meditation, Ladakh is known as the “land of high passes”. After a long dreary winter, summer is the time to rejuvenate with pomp and fervour. Here, rejuvenation is a celebration, a way of attaining supreme truth. The festivals are a perfect concoction of ancient customs, rich culture and celebration of life. One of the most famous festivals here is Hemis Festival celebrated in Hemis Monastery. Situated 45km away from Leh, Hemis Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery (gompa) of the Drukpa Lineage, the largest and richest
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one in the region. Existed before the 11th century, the monastery was re-established in 1672 by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal. It is famous for its magnificent architecture and the Buddha statue positioned atop a mound overlooking the monastery. Leh now sits in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, the town is still dominated by the former Leh Palace, built around the same time and in similar style to Potala Palace, and was once of the home of the royal family of Ladakh. The 28,000 residents of the the city are predominantly Buddhists and as such, Leh is the very much the heart and soul of Buddhist culture in the region. The Hemis Festival is dedicated to Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche) venerated as the Dance Performance at Hemis Monastery representative reincarnate of Buddha. He is believed to have been born on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Year of the Monkey, as predicted by the Buddha Shakyamuni. It is also believed that his life mission was, and remains, to improve the spiritual condition of all living beings. And so on this day, which comes once in a cycle of 12 years, Hemis observes a major extravaganza in his memory. The observance of these sacred rituals is believed to give spiritual strength and good health. The Hemis festival takes place in the rectangular courtyard in front of the
main door of the monastery. This two-day event celebrates the victory of good over evil and commemorates the birth anniversary of Buddhist guru Padmasamabhava who brought Vajrayana Buddhism to Central Asia, China and the Himalayan region. Revered as the second Buddha, Guru Padmasambhava was invited to India in the 8th century to conquer dark forces and transform them into guardians and protectors of dharma. The festival is celebrated every year on the 10th lunar day of the Tibetan calendar. This year, it falls on 7th and 8th July. The central courtyard of Hemis Monastery sets the stage: Drums, trumpets and wind instruments commence the celebrations with an early morning ceremony in which thousands of Buddhist followers take blessings from a portrait of Lord Padmasambhava. Uncooked rice, incense sticks, tomas (butter-and- dough dish) and holy water are the main ceremonial items. The chief monk of the monastery carries the holy water throughout the courtyard for purification. However, the key attraction is the religious masked dance performed by the lamas (monks) around the central flagpole in the courtyard. Known as Chhams, these dance dramas are performed wearing vibrant clothes and intimidating masks. Chhams are essentially a part of Tantric tradition, performed only in the gompas that follow the Tantric Vajrayana teachings and where the monks perform tantric worship. Dressed in colourful bright brocades with vibrantly decorated and richly adorned paper-mache masks
(some extending over 1 metre in height) the masked dancers simulate combat between good spirits and evil demons to the cacophony of drums, cymbals and long horns. The dance consists of two parts: the first pays homage to the eight aspects of Guru Padmasambhava. The second part shows Maha Dongcren, a horned masked figure, slaying demonic forces. The eight manifestations of Padmasambhava belong to the tradition of the revealed treasures. It includes the depiction of union with consort, a fully ordained Buddhist monk, a young crowned prince, the Saviour who teaches dharma to people, the intelligent youth, a naked yogi pointing towards sun, fierce manifestation of Vajrakilaya and the Lion of Debate. These religious dances are used to educate people about the impermanent nature of all phenomena and the victory of mind over ignorance and evil. Blaring horns and hypnotic drums serve as perfect soundtracks for the dance with most movements consisting of measured steps and twirls. The stunning colours of whirling robes, antique masks and swaying movements create a visual treat. Witnessing the mask dances is believed to remove ignoranceand take one closer towards to attaining nirvana. The crowd unites in uproarious song and dance when the dough idol of evil is destroyed by the leader of black hat dancers signifying that good has prevailed. “By watching these mask dances, ‘choreographed’ by celestial beings for enlightened masters, we should receive the blessings of being able to cut through aff lictive emotions and realise the nature of our own mind and wisdom,” says a monk from Hemis Monastery. ■
KNOWN AS CHHAMS, THESE DANCE DRAMAS ARE PERFORMED WEARING VIBRANT CLOTHING AND INTIMIDATING MASKS
Good to know: •Best time to visit: May-September • How to reach: take a flight to Kushok Bakula Rimpochhe Airport, Leh., or a train to Jammu tawi, 300 km away. Or drive via the srinagar-Leh or manali-Leh highways •Where to Stay: The Leh Ladakh travel guide has suggestions to suit all budgets •Also to see: Hemis National Park, the largest in Southern Asia Parts of this article are taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by Supriya Agarwal
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WORLDWIDE
Brand Yoga
With its roots in Indian mythology and scriptures, yoga is incorporated into the lives of every race and society of the modern world
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oga, an ancient discipline, has become popular worldwide. The marketing of yoga and dispute over its origins have led to debate as to whether yoga should be branded at all. Some yoga instructors have gone so far as to copyright their varieties of yoga; others in the yoga community say it is a religious and/or spiritual practice and as such should not be claimed as intellectual property. Is everything brandable—and should everything be brandable? Yoga has immense potential for leading the global wellness and health industry. It also has the capability to employ thousands to achieve a more peaceful world. Yoga is practised across the world today. Literature on yoga is available in every language and forms an integral part of the global health and wellness industry. Little wonder the worldwide business of yoga is, at present, valued at $27 billion worldwide and can be divided into
THE WORLDWIDE BUSINESS OF YOGA IS, AT PRESENT, VALUED AT $27 BILLION WORLDWIDE AND CAN BE DIVIDED INTO THE THREE Ps OF YOGA three Ps of yoga: Practice, Publishing and Products. Practice being the core driver, Publishing the knowledge driver. All three are interdependent and necessary to form a strong yoga environment. Good examples for each would be Bikram Yoga with over 5,000 yoga studios around the world for Practice. In a
world where the majority of yoga teachers were just scraping by Bikram succeeded through strategic use of branding and legal protections. Bikram also gained an edge by understanding yoga’s commercial potential. Yoga Journal, a U.S.-based magazine since 1975 that boasts of a readership of 1.3 million for Publishing and Lulu Lemon, a yoga apparel store chain with revenues of over $1.3 billion for Products. With branded styles of yoga teaching, branded yoga clothing, branded training programs, branded certificates, and branded instructors, present trends suggest that yoga and marketing go hand-in-hand. To develop a strong yoga brand, you need the right environment, one that protects the business of yoga. The core of yoga is non-propriety with its origin thousands of years ago but intellectual property protection is a must for modern-day Brand Yoga. One reason yoga has developed a world footprint is its ability to change with time, region and society. Yoga is also flexible, not only in the asanas but in the environment. The present-day business environment demands innovation, research and productisation in yoga be protected under its copyright laws. Only then will the laws of business bear fruit to Brand Yoga. Brand Yoga is a gift the world has only previewed. It has immense potential for leading wellness and health industry, to employ thousands to achieve a more content world. But beware of the utopic dream that yoga is to be only practiced as it was in the past and any change would dilute it. Yoga has evolved and that evolution has created its mass following. Any rigidity would stunt its growth. Let’s embrace the current brand and business environment to create Brand Yoga in the 21st century. ■ Part of this article is taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by Birad Rajaram Yajnik
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HEALTH
Ayurveda Health & Balance One of the oldest yet most evolving sciences of good living, Ayurveda is witnessing a phoenix-like resurrection
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or centuries, this was the aphorism that civilisations lived happily with, till the invention of “medicine” that is. The rise of medicine as a separate stream cut a big wedge through the predominantly food-based health system. Suddenly, food and medicine became two different identities. Resources were bifurcated. Medicines could not be AGNIVESA PRESENTS A consumed as food while food DETAILED ACCOUNT OF HOW meant materials with weak potency but edible. AYURVEDA VIEWED FOOD AND India, however, remained an WAS ABLE TO CATEGORISE IT TO exception to this rule where food and medicine remained SUIT INDIVIDUALS one and were often fused to enhance the digestion and absorption ability of human body and its longevity. Based on the concept of balancing its three doshas (elements) - vata, pitta and kapha - ayurveda was, at the time, the basis on which food habits and culture
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of society revolved. Food then was not about sustenance but maintaining the equilibrium of body’s energetic constitution. The eating habits then were different from modern views of balanced diet which exhorts all to eat the same basic food groups (meat, dairy, fruit, grains and vegetables) and achieve the same “standard* levels of vitamins, minerals and micronutrients in the body. Ayurveda, which shunned this approach by calling it “insufficiently individualised”, on the other hand determined an individual’s diet on what balances the body’s three doshas. Interestingly, it is the same approach that this ancient science follows while presenting a food plan or combating an illness today. For instance, ayurveda, unlike conventional medicine to treat stomach ache, will determine the cause and then frame a food composition that will help eliminate the problem while strengthening the system. While this method lacks ‘instant gratification’ of conventional medicine, it is an effective treatment against most ailments. Agnivesha, that dates ayurveda presence in India to as early as 100 BC, presents a detailed account of how ayurveda viewed food and was able to categorise it to suit an individual bio-system. In fact, the book mentions the use of spices like pepper, ginger root, clove and flowers in treating certain ailments.
A second book written in 200 BC, Charaka mentions the existence of techniques like parboiling, grilling, curdling and sauteing that were used to make food tasty while retaining their nutrients. Food like curd, paneer and dal (pulses) existed in Indian diet as early as 200 BC. Millets were a known ingredient then and were often used in detox diets like kitchen (originally khichdi- cooked rice and pulse). Vegetable oil and dairy fat such as ghee from cow’s milk were not seen as fat but effective nutrients to help build immunity. Ghee was essential for cooling the body that assimilated good properties of food it was mixed with and added them to its own. without losing its own properties. This was why most ayurvedic text used ghee as the cooking/ blending medium. Chyavanprash is one of the finest examples of ayurvedic health system and how it used the combination of different herbs, plants, roots and food to enhance health. Food pairing was done on five principles of wellbeing - taste (rasa), property {guna), potency (veerya), metabolic effect (vipaaka) and special potency (prabhaava). This was important as any lesser combination could harm the sys-
tem of the body, which even now, is considered a network of tissues. This was the reason ayurveda advises cooked food be consumed within an hour of its preparation and believes stale food as tamsik aahar which causes maximum damage to the body. Ayurveda worked on the principle of wholesomeness which evaluates each food on the basis of its own taste (rasa), a heating FOOD PAIRING WAS DONE ON or cooling energy (veerya) FIVE PRINCIPLES OF WELLBEING and post-digestive effect TASTE (RASA), PROPERTY {GUNA), {vipaka). And thus was able to bring a list of good or bad POTENCY (VEERYA), METABOLIC combination that affected EFFECT (VIPAAKA) AND SPECIAL the body. The science of different food enzymes that POTENCY (PRABHAAVA) required their own digestive enzyme was well-known back then. It was known, for instance, that eating bananas with milk can diminish agni (fire), change the intestinal flora producing toxins and may cause sinus congestion, cold, cough and allergies. A fact that conventional medicine discovered only a few decades ago. ■
Science of taste • According to Ayurveda, the body taste system helps determine foods that are good or bad for it. • Sweet taste gives strength to tissue elements, is good fee nourishment and harmonises the mind. • Sweet tasting products are not only those which taste sugary but include rice, ghee and fruits. Sweet food is heavy on digestion. • Sour taste stimulates digestive fires and enzymes and sourtasting food for example, lime and tamarind are easy on digestion and good for heart. Vinegar and citric acid are not a part of this list.
•S alty taste stimulates digeston, clears obstruction in the channels of the body, causes sweating and increases the power ot digestion but lends to deplete reproductive secretions An excess of salt causes graying and winkling. • Pungent tastes, as in onion, pepper and garlic. help digestion, improve metabolism and dilate channels in the body. Foods with bitter taste eliminate bacterial elements, purify the blood and are light on digestion. • Substances which have a predominance of astringent taste such as potatoes. apples, betelnut leaves, most green vegetables and food containing tannin like tea. possess properties to heal ulcers and wounds They dry up moisture and fat in the body and act as water absorbents. This article is taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by by Madhulika Dash
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Puppet Theatre Festival Believed to be more than a thousand years old, references to puppet shows can be found in Rajasthani folk tales and ballads
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The “Katkatha” Puppet Group from India performed at the 22nd International Festival of Children’s Theatres in Subotica on 19th May, 2015. Their performance ‘About Ram’ was awarded the “Group Award for the Best Puppet Animation” and “Award for best Director and Preservation of Tradition”. The Group also gave performances in Kanjiza, Novi Sad, Zvezdara and New Belgrade.
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ndia’s rich history of puppetry goes back over 3,000 years. In 2nd century, Tamil poet Tiruvalluvar mentioned “marionettes moved by strings” in his compositions. In Bhagavad Gita (religious Hindu text), God has been likened to a puppeteer with three strings - sattva, raias and tamas. The main character in ancient Indian Sanskrit plays was called sutradhaar (holder of strings). Over the years, the trend has found way to towns, cities and metros. Just that the tales of royalty have been replaced by socially and morally relevant messages. In April 2015 India celebrated the 13th edition of Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival with participation by almost a hundred international groups. “This festival possibly was one of the thrusting forces to invite traditional and modern puppetry on a common platform, building a conscious change of atmosphere towards the art form, especially in a country which many think is the birthplace of puppet theatre. Through the years, audiences have been exposed to various artistes, directors and ways unimaginable, breaking stereotypes in traditional and modern puppet theatre,“ said Dadi Pudumjee, founder of The Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust. India’s traditional puppet theatre stands out because, being both visual and language oriented, it has audiences in the regions it belongs to. A heartening development is the new generation of puppeteers. “Younger puppeteers are questioning techniques and traditions. They are creating and looking for new repertory, techniques, materials. The art is constantly evolving,’’ he said.
ACROSS STATES Rajasthan Puppets are called kathputli, kath meaning wood and putli meaning doll. Shrill voices are produced by lead puppeteer by blowing into a bamboo reed. Social issues like dowry, illiteracy, poverty and unemployment are portrayed. Andhra Pradesh Shadow puppets called tholu bommalata (tholu means leather and bommalata means puppet dance), made out of goat skin, stand tall at 5-6 ft. Goat skin undergoes special treatment to make puppets translucent and coloured using vegetable dyes. Joints at shoulders, elbows, knees, waist, neck and ankles allow for ample movement. Kerala Thai pavakuthu as it is called here is performed in temples with Kamba Ramayana traditionally enacted. The performance starts at night and continues till daybreak for up to 21 days. Around 160 leather puppets, 3 ft high, are manipulated from behind a cotton cloth screen on a 42 ft stage. Twenty one oil lamps made of coconut halves, placed equidistant on a wooden beam behind the screen, make shadows fall on screen. Pava-kuthu (glove puppetry) is practiced in evenings in Palghat district, presenting episodes from Mahabharata.
Know puppets Tamil Nadru String puppets, called bommalattam are among the largest and haviest in India. Shows are performed in temples during festivals, and last 10 days. Strings are tied onto an iron ring which is worn on a puppeteer`s head. Some puppets have jointed limbs manipulated with rods. They present scenes from epics and humourous stories. Maharashtra In kalasutri bahulya small string puppets without legs are used to marrate episodes from Ramayana through folk tunes. Maharashtra`s shadow puppets chamadyache bahulya are coloured with vegetable dyes. They have no jointed limbs and are manipulated using a single rod at the centre. Odisha Leather cutouts are used in ravanachhaya to depict episodes from Ramayana. Moving this puppets requires a lot of skill as there are no joints. Earthen lamps cast light on the screen to create shadows. In kundhei nach glove puppets are made of three wooden pieces – head and two hands with holes for fingers. A long flowing costume hides the joints and the puppeteer`s hand. He plays the dholak with the other hand and narrates a story.
Shadow A tightly stretched white cloth with a light behind acts as screen for flat puppets. Traditionally these puppets were made of animal skin with a bamboo or cane stick attached vertically to enable manipulation
Rod One main rod, hidden inside the costume, supports the puppet`s body. Smaller rods are connected to the hands and manipulated for action
Glove These are worn on the hand and manipulated with fingers to make the puppet`s heads and arms move.
String They`re made of wood, or wire, or cloth stuffed with cotton, rags or sawdust. Strings are attached to the body and limbs of these puppets and pulled to create actions.
Parts of this article are taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by Netharika Mathur Sinha
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REVIEW
by Dušan Pajin Ph.D.
Cultivation of Attention Concentration A
large number of researchers and educators around the world, dating back to the ‘70s, have established that one of the most common problems among primary schools pupils are - short attention spans, poor coordination and hyperactivity. When watching television a general spiritual attitude of the contemporary man is manifested - that there may be a better program on some other ’’channel’’, but also the inability to hold one’s attention on one programme. Psychologists in different ways point to changes in the general attitude, and cultivation of attention. It is therefore interesting to see how the importance of concentration is observed and emphasised in the Indian tradition, as in a variety of skills including yoga. CONCENTRATION IN ARC SHOOTING In the first Mahabharata book there is an interesting description of concentration needed for arc shooting. Namely, Dronacharya was tasked to train princes in different martial arts, and in use of various weapons. He set up a wooden bird in a tree with a colored eye and placed the shooters at certain distance. Yudhisthira was called to shoot first. When he drew his bowstring, Dronacharya asked him ’’What do you see’. Yudhisthira answered: ’’I see the wooden bird, the fruits on the tree and other birds’’. Dronacharya told him to put down his bow and called the next boy forward and asked him the same question. He gave a similar answer, naming everything he could see. Once again, the the boy was told to put away his bow. This same pattern continued with every boy that followed. And finally it was Arjuna’s turn. Dronacharya asked him the same question, and he said: ’’I can see only the eye of the bird and nothing else“. Pleased, Dronacharya said to him: “Then shoot!” and Arjuna shot the bird straight into the eye. Dronacharya turned to the other princes and said: ’’When you aim for
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Man's attention and memory are scattered, related to a generalised appetite for stimulations, which keep alternating, holding him in a state of permanent promise, of permanent sensory strong desire something, you must look at nothing else but the target. Only concentration can help you strike the target. All of you could see the other things like the trees, the fruits, because you were not concentrating on the task given to you. It was only Arjuna who was really concentrating. So now all of you know why Arjuna is the best student!” CONCENTRATION (DHARANA) IN YOGA An important component of yoga practice is to concentrate on a single object, whether this is a physical object, or a thought. This is called ekagrata (“on a single point”) and is achieved by adding the scattered attention, which is usually focused on a few items at the same time. The result is suspension of dispersed attention and mental automatisms that make up the current, ordinary consciousness. In Patanjali yoga, the sixth yoga component is dharana (concentration). The practice of ekagrata tends to control the two generators of mental flow: sense activity (indriya) and the activity of the subconscious (samskara), to influence the functioning of these two sources of mental ‘whirlwinds’ (cittavritti). Vritti means whirlwinds, swirling, and Patanjali points out five fluctuations of the mind (or five vrittis): cognition (pramana), misconception (viparjaja), imagination (vikalpa), sleep (nidra) and memory (smrti). Asanas, breathing exercises and concentration are there to – at least during a particular exercicse - abolish the man’s coditionality. Motionless, with a steady breath and look and attention pinned down only to a single point, the yogin becomes autonomous. According to one of the divisions of members, or phases (anga) of yoga, concentration (dharana) is associated with the last two phases (meditation and samadhi) into a trinity (samyama), consisting of: concentration (dharana), meditation (dhjana) and samadhi. ■
by Vuk Stambolović Ph.D.
Health and the Principle of Oneness According to the Principle of Oneness, characteristic of ancient Indian philosophy, Serbia and India are already One, as factors of Comprehensive Oneness permeated by their particularities
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oday and here, however, we take the Principle of Oneness into consideration only in the domain of our profound inner context, which we can call consciousness. Typically, nevertheless, we function, and that means we think, feel and act, mainly in the domain of matter. And this is the domain that emphasises separateness and division. Hence, Oneness, which already exists, we are yet to create and then, by creating it, acknowledge its long existence. Creating Oneness, of course, is not easy. The domain of the matter is the domain of the senses and, as such, it constantly occupies us with various physical attractions. Hence we most often leave the domain of consciousness aside. Though that doesn’t mean the story on Oneness ends there. Namely, at our disposal is also something that has always moved us towards the very Oneness. That ‘’something’’ is our epimeletic impulse, our profound inner aspiration, which, as an instinct, is common among all other mammals, and man manifests it with the desire to overcome the Ego limitations and support the close ones, especially those who have for some reason lost hope. In different cultures the epimeletic impulse was made operational in various ways. The key to this was the operationalisation, which was manifested in the form of specific health practices. In our folk culture, this practice was mainly expressed through the use of herbal plants. In India it led to the development of two mutually connected and very diverse systems – Yoga and Ayurveda. Surely, by means of epimeletic impulses, and through deep insights, healing practices were developed, acting in the sense of establishing Oneness. And that means supporting us to face weakness and suffering by overcoming a series of divisions:
firstly, various divisions within ourselves, divisions in relation to other people, and then in relation to Nature, as well as in relation to Universal Consciousness. Here and now, however, we almost forgot that our herbal plants support us in reaching Oneness. It is therefore, most often used as if using some syrup or tablets. For Yoga and Ayurveda, however, the path to Oneness is the foundation of health. In therapeutic practice all stakeholders in the healing process are devoted to that path, ther- THE CONSEQUENT apists who are actually health instructors, as well as those AFFORDABILITY OF YOGA who approached them due to AND AYURVEDA WOULD various forms of pain. Because ALSO BE BENEFICIAL FOR of their direct focus on establishing Oneness, applying Yoga THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM and Ayurveda in our circumstances would be very beneficial. First of all, owing to the effectiveness of Yoga and Ayurveda, the ill, as well as their close ones, would feel the benefits. The consequent affordability of Yoga and Ayurveda would also be beneficial for the healthcare system, and the state alike. Applying Yoga and Ayurveda for the purpose of health improvement would be beneficial for education and economy. And not the least, applying Yoga and Ayurveda would prompt us to have a different view about the most beautiful gift stemming from the epimeletic impulse of our ancestors – our herbal plants, as well as other practices of our folk medicine. And then, through joint Yoga and Ayurveda practice, and our herbal plants as well, we can turn to the Principle of Oneness to a greater extent. ■
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over the world are well aware of this. They are always hungry to learn more about Indian rhythms and keen to apply them in their own core rhythm instruments. For example, the complex rhythmic calculations used in instruments like mridangam and tabla are fascinating, and many drummers and percussionists do a complete study of Indian rhythm and apply it. Looking at the origin of Indian music and its connection to the spiritual energy, the chants and mantras in Sanskrit have found an exotic slot in Western music. Whenever they want to communicate feelings of peace or tranquility, Indian chants and shlokas are used as an important tool, they take you into a deep meditative world. India has a huge musical gold mine called lok sangeet or folk music. These earthy rustic voices and untrained musicians truly have become hot properties to collaborate with Western musicians
Indian Music Inspiring Indian music has created a storm in the Western music world
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ndia is blessed with two forms of classical music - the Hindustani shastriya sangeet {traditional music) from the north and the Carnatic sangeet from the south. Even though it is a monophonic (simple melody, without accompanying harmony) form of music, with its intricate inflexions, shrutis and complex rhythmic patterns, Indian music has created a storm in the Western music world. Ragas for instance. There are a range of 72 full-scale ragas out of which thousands of derivative ragas can be formed. Indian music has an endless number of scales to offer, each with a different mood and emotion. When such a database of scales is available for the Western world, suddenly their horizon expands, the possibilities are more and the creative senses experience a new canvas to paint on as opposed to the normal major or minor pentatonic or the dorian or lydian scales that they use. The most important and interesting thing about Indian music is the rhythm. Musicians all
A three-member Indian classical music group gave a performance of “Rudra Veena” at the Kolarac Foundation in Belgrade on 21st April 2015.
JOURNEY TO THE WEST Indan music “Hindustani” was performed in the U.S. as early as the 1930 by musician Uday Shankar’s dance troupe. Based on Indian Ragas Raqa rock emerged In the West, its advent often traced in the 1955 release, “See my friends” by The Kinks in UK. The Paul Butterfly Blues Band elevated the concept of Indian influenced rock music with a 13-minute instrumental “East West”. SONGS WITH INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC INFLUENCE -Norwegian Wood, Love You To. Within You Without You, The Inner Light and Tomorrow Never Knows by The Beatles -Paint It, Black and Gomper by The Rolling Stones -Black Mountain Side and White Summer by Led Zeppelin -Behind The Sun by The Red hot Chili Peppers -Setting Sun by The Chemical Brothers -Who Feels Love, 2000 by Oasis -Taste of India by Aerosmith -Knees of My Bees. Eight Easy Steps and Citizen of the Planet by Alanls Morissette -Whenever I May Roam by Metallica PANDIT RAVI SHANKAR: SYNONYM OF INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC IN THE WEST Sitar legend Pandit Ravi Shankar is almost single-handedly responsible for popularising Indian music in the West. His sitar became a natural acoustic ally of the electric guitar sounds of that era. George Harrison of The Beatles, took the crash course in sitar from him. Rock groups such as Cream, Jimi Hendrix, The Greatful Dead and The Doors used his highly expressive melodies and improvisations In extended jam sessions. As Shankar build the audience through tours of Europe and the U.S., he become the first Indian musician to score for a Western film. ■ This article is taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by by Shankar Mahadevan
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“The Great Indian Yoga Masters” “The Great Indian Yoga Masters” is an expression of the ancient art of yoga and talks about its well-known practitioners
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he success of yoga has been its acceptance across the world. This is due to its adaptability to any region or culture. If practiced every day with faith and patience, yoga can help us change. Although the inception of yoga may have deep roots in Hindu mythology and religion, it does not in any way propagate Hindu religion. It is almost an SOP or standard operating procedure for life. It is a way of life. This and much more has been included in “The Great Indian Yoga Musters”: Tracing 2500 years of Yoga 500 BCE to 21st Century. Written by Biraid Rajaram Yajnik, the book is a tribute to the great yoga masters. Written in a simple lucid style with captivating photographs, it takes off from a chapter on the origin of yoga, goes on to talk about the gurus of olden times including Paramhansa Yogananda, Swami Sivananda Saraswati, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya to modern masters like K Pattabhi Jois, BKS Iyengar, TKV Desikachar, Bikram Choudhury and Master Kamal and ends with a chapter on its future. The author has painstakingly compiled and photographed yogic postures across nine countries which he terms “fascinating”. “The one thing that stands out is the mammoth following of yoga across the world. Yoga has been adapted in various regions and is now a world-
wide phenomenon. It may have originated in India 2,500 years ago but today it is owned by the world,” pens the author in his preface. What sage Patanjali, considered the father of yoga, wrote in his Yogasutras has been fully explained in the book, including the paths of yoga, bhakti, gyaan and rajayoga. The author has explained everything such that anyone can comprehend the subject. There is also an in-depth analysis of the eight limbs or steps to yoga including yama (universal morality), niyama (personal obserWHAT SAGE PATANJALI, vances), asanas (body posCONSIDERED THE FATHER tures) right up till samadhi or union with the divine. The OF YOGA, WROTE IN HIS author also draws readers YOGASUTRAS HAS BEEN FULLY attention to the fact that despite the multi-billioin EXPLAINED IN THE BOOK, dollar sports industry built INCLUDING THE PATHS OF YOGA, around exercise gears, BHAKTI, GYAAN AND RAJAYOGA gyms, equipment, sports medicine and psychology, physiotherapy and more, yoga stands apart in exceptional simplicity. Remarkably non- reliant on modern technology, yoga continues to redress a lack in the modern world. ■
Parts of this article are taken from India Perspectives magazine, written by Seema Sondhi
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