Artistes invoke Lord Ganesh for music

Artistes invoke Lord Ganesh for music, dances

Lord Ganesh is the deity invoked for all new beginnings, but he is not only the remover of all obstacles but also the inspiration for music and dance.

Composed 2,500 years ago by Adi Shankaracharya, a vandana is the oldest invocation to the muse of all beginnings.

"Shiva is the Adideva and his son Ganpati the leader of Ganas. So he commands respect from all. Which is why we begin every performance by invoking his blessings," said Pandit Jasraj, Classical Musician.

But Pandit Jasraj's personal favourite is the prayer in Gaud Sarang, composed by his late father and guru Pandit Motiram.

Touching all cultures

For classical artists, music is incomplete without Ganpati. He is the only God who can play every instrument and dance all dance forms.

His prayer is a norm before every show, every recital. At singer Anuradha Paudwal's home, even the annual worship is a tradition.

''We always worship a Ganesh made of rice, and this has been a tradition in the family. We call him Moti Ganesh,'' said Anuradha Paudwal, Singer.

Even the pop culture is touched deeply by the muse. At Shankar Mahadevan's house, Ganpati returns with a new look.

"All that I have is given by Ganesh's grace." Shankar Mahadevan, Singer and Music Director.

While the theme last year was South Indian, it is Rajasthan this year.