Is Self Realisation Possible Through Music?

Ramana Maharshi

oi-Priya Devi

By Priya Devi

Thursday, July 15, 2010, 11:28

Bhagavan Ramana enlightened all those who approached Him with their various, contrasting doubts regarding their spiritual progress. Though Bhagavan advocated self enquiry, He never stood in the path of seekers who pursued other spiritual practices that could later form a base for Atma Vichara (Self Enquiry)

Ramana's answers were crystal clear and to the point that cleared the mist of doubts veiling one's understanding.

One day a lady who was well versed in classical music and who was also proficient in playing the Veena , came up with a question to Bhagavan.

“Bhagavan is it possible to attain liberation through music alone or would other spiritual practices be required,?" the lady asked.

Bhagavan remained silent as if to reveal the stillness of the Atman where no music can penetrate.

The lady, unable to understand Bhagavan's silence further queried, “Did not Saint Thyagaraja and other saints attain moksha by singing the praises of God?"

A smile broke forth from Bhagavan. He said, “Thyagaraja and the others did not attain Moksha through their songs but from the ecstasy that sprang forth from within as a result of their realisation of the ultimate. Their songs were just an expression of their blissful state. This was the reason why their music stood the test of time. This is what is called as 'Nadopanishad!"

The astonished lady prostrated to Bhagavan and said, “Bhagavan all these days I have been living with my own misinterpretation of facts and mistaken beliefs. You have illumined me. My doubts have dispelled and my mind is clear and free!"

Who other than Bhagavan could give out profound answers in the most direct and simplest way?