Do you advocate the employment of “Gamaka” in 22 Srutis Music?
In my view, ‘Gamaka’ has a role to play only in our contemporary music. In 22 Srutis Music system, the concept of ‘Gamaka’ will be no longer relevant. It has to give way to the age-old sacred concept of “swara-suddhata”. Flexing notes by employing Gamakas will not be admissible as the same would upset the very concept of “Suddhata” of “Prakrata (Natural) Swaras”.
‘Gamaka’ will continue to play a significant role in the 22 srutis music environment also. In fact ‘gamakas’ are embellishments meant to incorporate the much needed ‘aesthetics’ that is unique to the Indian music culture. However, the major difference in our approach will be in terms of “swara-suddhata”. What I mean is that the assigned position of swaras will act as the “sacred fulcrum” around which they may be curved up or down in order to generate the aesthetic appeal. But, at no stage the ‘fulcrums’ themselves can be modified as it is being done in our contemporary music culture. This is however, a debatable issue.
