Gurbani music is the language of the Akal Purakh, which has the full potential to control the mind and bring spiritual joy. According to the research of scientists, because the magical effect of music is universal, no human, animal, bird and even vegetation can live without being affected. That is why the Gurus and other poets considered music as a means of meeting God and made it the medium of communication of their spiritual message.
Raga plays an important role in Guru Granth Sahib. The Sikh Gurus composed their teachings in the form of words, and many of these words are set in different ragas.
The verses in the Guru Granth Sahib are written in several languages including Punjabi, Hindi and Sanskrit and the use of different ragas helps to enhance the beauty and meaning of the poetry.
The use of ragas in the Guru Granth Sahib is an integral part of Sikhism, and reflects the importance of music, poetry and culture in the religion.
A raga is a form of classical Indian music characterized by specific notes, a mood, and a time of day or season with which they are associated. In the Guru Granth Sahib, the Gurus used different ragas to sing their verses in music, creating a unique blend of music and poetry that is considered one of the most important contributions of Sikhism to the world of music.
Each raga has a unique mood and emotional impact, which the Gurus used to convey the spiritual message of their verses.
Example
Raga Basant – creates a new beginning. There are feelings of hope, of a new beginning.
The ragas used in the Guru Granth Sahib are not limited to Indian classical music, but also include folk and devotional music. It reflects the inclusive nature of Sikhism, which emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and valuing different cultures and traditions.