Sri:
The Influence of Carnatic Music Raagas on Emotional States: An Investigation
into Hormonal and Brain Wave Correlations
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S Jayanth Vishaal 1, S. Bharath Gowda 1 , Dharshan N 2 and Vimuktha Evangeleen Salis3
1
Student Dept. of ISE, 2 Student Dept. of CSE,
3
Professor, Dept. of Information Science & Engineering,
Global Academy of Technology
Abstract Literature Survey Implications and Future Discussion
We present the role of Classical Indian Carnatic music in the Sangeeta Shankar et al. [1] examine the ancient Indian concept of Understanding the neurological aspects of Carnatic music has broad
intertwined relationship between Music and emotions. Carnatic music, a Rasa, which explores the relationship between music, emotions, and implications for its therapeutic use in various fields, including stress
rich and ancient art form, which has a profound place in Indian culture. the state of mind in classical Indian performing arts and David Frawley reduction, emotional regulation, and cognitive enhancement. By
Its aesthetic value and ability to evoke deep emotions in listeners are a et al. [2] explore the ancient Indian philosophy of Nada Yoga, which tailoring musical experiences based on brain wave responses, music
testament to its historical development. The system of ragas (melodic delves into the transformative power of sound and music on emotions therapy can be personalized to cater to individuals' emotional needs.
frameworks) and talas (rhythmic cycles) forms the foundation of and the state of mind. Aparna Nandakumar et al. [3] investigate the Future research could explore the long-term effects of listening to
Carnatic music, which has been meticulously preserved through oral therapeutic effects of the same in mental well-being, discussing how specific raagas and investigate the role of neural plasticity in shaping
traditions, guru-disciple relationships, and written compositions. We specific ragas (melodic frameworks) can influence emotions and the emotional responses to music. Additionally, studies examining the
attempt to analyze the role of ragas and the emotion associated given state of mind. Priyanka Agrawal et al. [4] in their study explore the impact of Carnatic music on patients with neurological and psychiatric
that each raga has its own distinct character and emotional quality, correlation between Indian classical music and meditation, focusing on disorders may uncover its potential as an adjunct therapeutic tool. In
which is skillfully manipulated by musicians harnessing the nuances of how specific musical elements and ragas induce specific emotional short, this research highlights the profound influence of Carnatic music
ragas to evoke specific emotional states, leaving a deep impact on the states and affect the mind. Rakesh Ranjan, Kumar et al. [5] examine raagas on brain wave patterns, offering valuable insights into the
listener's psyche. Scientific research suggests that Carnatic music's the emotional responses elicited by Indian classical music, analysing neurological underpinnings of emotional experiences evoked by music.
emotional impact is influenced by its neurological components, the impact of different ragas and musical compositions on various By acknowledging the neurological aspects of music, we can harness
generating alpha and theta waves that promote relaxation, attention, emotions and the state of mind. its potential to enhance well-being and emotional health, making it an
and heightened emotional states. Thus we suggest its possibilities in essential element in our lives.
areas therapy, meditation, and healthcare settings. Carnatic music's Methods and Materials
unique melodic and rhythmic structures contribute to its relevance in
current culture and its potential as an educational tool and Selection of Raagas :
transformative art form. Through meticulous analysis of historical literature and consultation Acknowledgement
with renowned music scholars, a set of Carnatic music raagas with
purported emotional impacts was selected for the study. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Hemalatha, Headmistress of
Participants: Vidyaniketan PU College, for her invaluable guidance and support
Introduction A diverse group of volunteers was recruited for the study. They had no throughout the practical aspects of this research. Additionally, we
prior musical training and belonged to various age groups and express our appreciation to Dr. Vimukta E Salis from the ISE
Music is a universal language that has been deeply interwoven with Department at Global Academy of Technology for her expert insights
human emotions since ancient times. Classical Indian Carnatic music is backgrounds.
Data Collection: and contributions during the course of this study. Their unwavering
an ancient art form that has a rich history spanning centuries. It holds a support has been instrumental in making this research a reality. The
profound place in Indian culture, not only for its aesthetic value but also Response taken while participants listened to different raagas.
Listening Sessions: observed modulation of brain wave patterns by Carnatic music raagas
for its ability to evoke deep emotions in listeners. This essay explores indicates a direct influence on neural activity. Such synchronization
• Participants were exposed to the selected raagas while their brain
the historical development of Carnatic music, its role in evoking could be attributed to the auditory system's ability to resonate with
emotions, the associated brain waves, and the potential benefits it waves were recorded using EEG and were analyzed to observe brain
wave patterns and correlate them with the sound waves of the specific musical frequencies, triggering emotional responses and
offers, paving the way for various applications in enhancing well-being. cognitive processes. Additionally, the entrainment of brain waves
Carnatic music finds its roots in the ancient scriptures and musical respective ragas.
suggests the potential of Carnatic music to promote states of collective
treatises of India. It has evolved through the contributions of renowned harmony and shared experiences during performances.
composers and musicians over centuries. The system of ragas Results
(melodic frameworks) and talas (rhythmic cycles) forms the foundation Brain Wave Patterns:
of Carnatic music. preserved through oral traditions, guru-disciple Analysis of EEG data revealed that certain raagas, like Yaaman,
relationships, and written compositions, shaping the unique and elicited delta waveforms in participants' brains. In contrast, raagas like Conclusions
enchanting art form that it is today. One of the captivating aspects of Shivranjini induced beta waveforms.
Carnatic music lies in its ability to elicit a wide range of emotions in This research provides compelling evidence that certain Carnatic music
brain wave patterns, and hormone production. The raaga Yaaman's raagas have the ability to modulate brain wave patterns and influence
listeners. Each raga possesses its own distinct character and emotional impact on delta waves aligns with its potential to induce relaxation and
quality. For example, the raga Bhairavi is known for evoking a sense of hormone production, resulting in distinct emotional experiences for
tranquility, as serotonin is associated with positive mood regulation. On listeners. Understanding these mechanisms can open up new
devotion and tranquillity, while the raga Todi can invoke a feeling of the other hand, the raaga Shivranjini's influence on beta waves
pathos. Through skilful rendering and improvisation, Carnatic musicians possibilities for utilizing Carnatic music as a therapeutic tool for mood
corresponds to its uplifting and joyous nature, which aligns with regulation and emotional well-being.
skilfully manipulate the nuances of ragas to evoke specific emotional dopamine's role in promoting feelings of pleasure and happiness.
states, leaving a deep impact on the listener's psyche.
Contact References
[1] S. Shankar, "Rasa Theory: An Ancient Indian Theory of Aesthetics and Emotions.".
S. Jayanth Vishaal [2] D. Frawley, "Nada Yoga: The Indian Philosophy of Sound".
[3] A. Nandakumar, "Indian Music Therapy: The Effect of Classical Music on Emotional and Mental Well-being.".
Student, Dept. of ISE, [4] P. Agrawal, "Indian Classical Music and Meditation: A Study of the Impact on Mind and Emotions".
Global Academy of Technology [5]
[6]
R. R. Kumar, "Emotional Responses to Indian Classical Music: An Empirical Study".
P. Chawlaa, "The Influence of Indian Music on Emotional Well-being: A Cross-cultural Perspective.".
Mail: [email protected] [7]
[8]
K. Bondre, "Music, Emotion, and Indian Aesthetics".
R. Srinivasan, "The Role of Indian Classical Music in Affecting Mood and Emotional States".
Contact: 97398 60216 [9] S. Srivastava, "Ragas and Emotional States: Exploring the Indian Classical Music Tradition".
[10] V. Joshi, "Music Therapy in Ancient Indian Texts: A Comprehensive Study".
