The seven notes (Saptak!): A foundation for excellence?

Personal excellence through building human capabilities are like mastering the seven notes (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni) from the Hindustani music, essential to composing a life of meaning and fulfillment. ~mv

These 7 notes (known as saptak) are not just sounds but are the carriers of meaning, each vibrating with a unique quality. Together they form the raga; the essence of expression in music!

• Sa (Shadaj): The initiation note. It is the constant, the foundation on which all else rests. The one that gives meaning to all the other notes in any composition/ melody.

In life, this is "Self-Awareness", knowing who you are, what drives you, and what holds you strong & steady. The composition of life can be beautiful if in tune with the initiation note.

• Re (Rishabh): The rising note. The one that ascends to beautiful possibilities...

Mirroring "Empathy", the ability to rise above oneself and connect with others. Just as "Re" propels the melody, empathy propels relationships & collective growth.

• Ga (Gandhar): The connect note! Many Ragas are identified by the way Gandhar is used, and defines the raga.

In life the ability to "Clearly see, Analyze and Understand nuance" creates harmony in decisions and actions. It represents critical thinking in a certain sense, and seek beauty in truth.

• Ma (Madhyam): The balance note. The note which can make ragas beautiful in extreme expressions.

In life it teaches to find "Equilibrium", shifting gracefully between extremes to navigate change & uncertainty.

• Pa (Pancham): The steadfast. Pa is constant and unwavering.

It signifies "Equanimity", the inner strength to endure while maintaining harmony in the melody of life. Ups and Downs are neutral to this note... one should be Sthitpragya स्थितप्रज्ञ as says Bhagawat Gita!

• Dha (Dhaivat): The uplifting one. Dha uplifts the melody, giving it grandeur.

One should perfect his command in "Communication", the art of expressing thoughts and emotions to inspire and connect. As Kabir said:

ऐसी वाणी बोलिए, मन का आपा खोये।

औरन को शीतल करे, आपहुं शीतल होए।।

• Ni (Nishad): The aspirational note. Ni takes one to the last point of the the octave, symbolizing ability to go beyond & be creative.

It is the quest to "Innovate", explore and reach for possibilities beyond the ordinary. Keep your goal so high, that it is impossible to achieve, but the journey and the strive to achieve it, helps in one's growth!

The "Shruti": Finding fulfillment through the subtle

While the notes create the structure, it is the Shruti : the microtonal spaces between them, that add richness and soul to the vast understanding of a musician.

The "Naad Bindu Upnishad" reminds us that true mastery lies in meditating on these subtleties.

In life, the Shruti are the "Nuances" in our thinking, knowledge and actions. They are the small yet profound adjustments that differentiate mediocrity from brilliance.

• In thought: the shruti is, nuanced view between "certainty and curiosity", where new insights are born. Pausing to reflect ,question, and explore reveals dimensions of understanding, often overlooked.
• In knowledge: the shruti is between "information and wisdom". it is not so much about knowing more, but knowing deeply : interpreting, synthesizing and applying knowledge in its completeness is what makes it meaningful.
• In action: the shruti is between "impulse and conscious action"; gives precision. just as a musician perfects each note's placement, mastering the timing and quality of our actions ensures they resonate fully.

The practice (riyaz): cultivating life's symphony.

Hindustani vocal practitioners devote their lives to riyaz; the disciplined practice of refining their art.

Similarly, cultivating capabilities for a fulfilling life requires intentional daily practice.

1. Anchoring oneself in "Sa": Self awareness is key, what drives you? what grounds you? reflect on the values, aspirations to find your steady "Sa".
2. Explore the octave: Expand the capabilities. practice empathy by listening deep, sharpen critical thinking by asking appropriate questions. Adapt like "Ma", transitioning smoothly across life's challenges.
3. Listen for the shruti: Paying attention to the subtleties in one's daily interactions is key! where can a small change create a big impact?, where is the deeper meaning hiding?,
4. Improvise your raga: Like a master musician, embrace improvisation. Use creativity to respond to life's surprises with grace and integrity.

Enjoy,

Mayank Verma | verma_mayank@hotmail.com