Melakarthas the gems of carnatic music volume 2

Publisher : Skanda Publication

Author : Vidhya Bhavani Suresh

Book Description : 

Two years back, hope was hard to find in the midst of the lockdown. But we decided to reignite our passion by taking on a missiona nearly insurmountable one. It was to take the abstract but powerful concept of Melakarthas to the public. But we hesitated. This was something few had attempted, and even fewer succeeded. And for good reason the Melakarthas is an inherently theoretical and rigorous system.

Thus, it was heart-warming to see Vidya tackle them with her characteristic methodology of 'simplifying without diluting. She did so by weaving abstract musical theory with a relatable story, the modus operandi she had pioneered in '50 Rare Ragas: The present book, in particular, sets itself apart by drawing the reader in with a place and a memory, and builds up a beautiful story, all while elegantly nudging us into the discussion about the raga. Thus, the Melakarthas are finally made accessible to all.

Another highlight of the book, is how Vidya approaches each raga. It's easy to view the Prati Madhyama (M2) Ragas as a group of largely unknown ragas, sprinkled with a few popular ones. But to her, it's simply a sea of opportunities, and she gives each raga its due respect. By dispelling all prejudices, she instils in us a childlike curiosity for all the 36.

In the first volume. I had mentioned how it was her best book yet. She continues to up the ante, creating an unparalleled work in this sequel. With this pair 'Melakarthas: The Gems of Carnatic Music", Vidya demystifies the Melakarthas for a modern audience, and leaves her glorious stamp on age-old tradition.