The Journey: 2014 - 2026
Twelve Years of Illumination
From a divine spark in 2014 to an internationally recognized institution, Veena Tattva Prakashika has evolved while remaining true to its founding vision.
VTP I: The Divine Inception
Emerging from divine intervention, the inaugural conference established the four-fold framework of inquiry: Adhyatmika, Vichara, Praatyakshika, and Madhyama.
Held at the spiritually significant location of Mantralaya, VTP I established that this would not be merely another music festival but a serious forum for inquiry.
Featured Scholars:
- Vidwan Srihari Sharma: Veena and Veda
- Prof. R K Murthy: Making of Veena Melam
- Vidwan Ananthapadmanabhan: Veena-Human Body comparisons
- Prof. Ra Vishweshwaran: Symbol of ancient Indian culture
VTP II: Honoring the Kingdom of Vainikas
Marked significant expansion, honoring the Wodeyar dynasty's contributions. Introduced live streaming and instituted systematic awards.
Landmark Research
Dr. B K Durga Prasad presented the groundbreaking "Comparative Study of Veena with Human Body through CT and MRI" — the first of VTP's interdisciplinary studies.
Awards Instituted:
- Sri Padma Vainika Vibhushana: Vidwan Dr. Vijayaraghavan
- Sri Padma Vainika Bhushana: Vidwan Kannan Balakrishnan, Vidushi Kaza Subhashini Sastry
Innovation:
First live telecast on shaale.com/live, democratizing access.
VTP III: Deepening Scientific Inquiry
A decisive integration of medical and therapeutic research, investigating music's healing properties with medical professionals.
Key Research
"Study of the Effect of Veena Nadam in the Treatment of Diabetes and Hypertension" (Dr. Jayashree)
"Ragas, Emotions, Functional MRI" (Dr. B. K. Durga Prasad)
The "Raga of the Hour" format allowed deep exploration of single ragas. Chief Guest Justice M.N. Venkatachalaiah graced the occasion.
VTP IV: Nada Yoga and Beyond
A triumphant return after the pandemic, featuring innovative Nada Yoga meditation retreats and thematic 'group kritis' programming dedicated to 75 years of Indian Independence.
Innovation
Introduction of structured Veena Nada Yoga meditation as daily practice, integrating wellness with artistic immersion. Every concert featured thematic "group kritis" collections—from Navagraha to Pancharatna series.
Key Research:
- EEG Brain Study: Dr. Prashanth Srinivasan
- Upper Limb Imaging: Dr. B K Durga Prasad
- Gamaka in Rakti Ragas: Dr. R S Jayalakshmi
Awards:
Sri Padma Vainika Vibhushana: Dr. R S Jayalakshmi, Vidushi M K Saraswati, Vidwan Mudikondan Ramesh (Conference Presidents)
Featured 11 concerts and 8 research presentations over three days. Concluded with Ghana Raga Pancharatna ensemble celebrating Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
VTP V: Science and Nada in Veena
The 5th edition of the conference partnering with PES University. Established 'Rasa Prajnana' research presentation sessions.
Book Releases
- "The Science of Playing Veena" by Prashanth Iyengar
- "My First Pluck" by Dr. B K Durga Prasad
Recognition
Vidushi Revathi Srinivasan received the title "Sri Padma Vainika Vibhushini".
Research included EEG studies on brain effects of Ragas and mathematical analysis using Ramanujan transforms.
VTP VI: Science Meets Tradition
The upcoming edition honoring Muthuswamy Dikshitar and Dr. Ra. Satyanarayana, focusing on the science of playing.
Book launches: "Shri Tyagaraja Tattva Vaibhavam" & "The Karnataka Music Genesis".
Conference President Vidwan Parthasarathy will receive "Sri Padma Vainika Vibhushana".
The Journey Continues
Each edition raises new questions, opens new avenues of inquiry, and inspires new generations to engage with this divine instrument.