Stone Nadaswaram (wind instrument), a rare and intriguing musical artifact, holds a special place in the temples of Tamil Nadu, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artistry of the region. The Nadaswaram, a traditional wind instrument integral to South Indian classical music, is usually crafted from wood, particularly jackwood. However, some temples boast unique stone versions of this instrument, which stand as artistic marvels and symbols of devotion.
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| stone nadaswaram Kumbakonam,TN thehindu.com |
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| stone nadaswaram and Vidwan, Kumbakonam. kreately.in |
The artisans of ancient Tamil Nadu, renowned for their mastery, not only crafted musical pillars but also created these rare stone Nadaswarams, made from a single piece of granite. Traditionally, the wooden Nadaswaram is played during temple rituals and auspicious occasions like weddings, but these stone versions serve as ceremonial artifacts that highlight the spiritual and artistic significance of music in worship.
One such remarkable stone Nadaswaram can be found at the Kumbeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district. This instrument's front part (volume controller) and end part (reeds) made of metal and middle part stone), created a century plus ago, weighs about 3 kilograms and is 2.5 feet long. In September 2017, a Nadaswaram expert Asthana Nadaswara Vidhwan played a few classical ragas on this stone instrument (that has just 6 holes), surprising the classical music community with its sound quality, despite the challenges of crafting such a delicate wind instrument from stone. For 15 long years it had not been played before.Choosing the right octave is very important. it requires 3 kattai pich (or scale E).
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| tower, Adikumbeshwarar Temple Kumbakonam TN, Flicker.com |
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| Adhikumbeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam dreamstime.com |
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| Alwarthirunagari Temple, divinediyaas.blogspot.com |
The stone nadaswaram (double-reed wind instrument) is another interesting feature of the temple in the town of Alwar Tirunagari This rare piece was donated about 350 years ago by King Krishnappa Nayak of the Madurai Nayak dynasty, known for their patronage of temple arts and architecture. Although it is no longer played, it is exhibited in the temple, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
Crafting a Nadaswaram out of stone requires extraordinary skill, as the instrument's ability to produce sound depends on precise design and material. While the wooden version is celebrated for its deep, resonant tones, the stone version stands as a testament to the artisans' craftsmanship and devotion.
In conclusion, stone Nadaswarams in Tamil Nadu temples are enduring symbols of the intricate relationship between art, devotion, and culture, preserving the region's rich musical heritage.
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/011017/tamil-nadu-stone-nadaswaram-makes-a-comeback-after-15-years.html
https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Stone_Nadaswaram
https://www.navrangindia.in/2017/11/stone-nadaswaram-rare-musical.html
https://indiaartreview.com/stories/kal-nayanam-unique-nagaswaram-made-of-stone/
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