| Varṇa-s Composed on Dēvi by Cuddalore M. Subramaniam |
| Carnatic music, one of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated classical traditions, integrates spirituality, poetic lyricism, and technical mastery. At the heart of its repertoire lies the varṇa, a compositional form that combines melodic beauty, rhythmic intricacy, and pedagogical value, serving as both a training piece and a concert staple. This paper examines the varṇa-s of Cuddalore M. Subramaniam (20th century), an eminent vocalist and prolific composer from Tamil Nadu. Having composed more than 600 compositions—including kṛti-s in all 72 mēḷakarta rāga-s, varṇa-s, tillāna-s, and a unique set of Śrī Rājarājeśvarī Pañcaratna—Subramaniam occupies a significant place in the lineage of modern Carnatic composers.
Focusing on three representative varṇa-s dedicated to Dēvi—Dayajūḍavamma (Śrī rāga, triśra aṭa tāḷa), Dēvi Mīnalōcani (Jaganmōhini, ādi tāḷa), and Ninnē Namminānu (Gīrvāṇi, Kīravāṇi, ādi tāḷa)—this study adopts a qualitative and analytical methodology. The compositions are analyzed across various parameters, including rāga lakṣaṇa, melodic sañcāra-s, rhythmic construction, prosodic alignment, and lyrical content. The findings highlight Subramaniam’s stylistic hallmarks: swift octave transitions, seamless integration of svara with sāhitya, intricate yati patterns, and frequent use of jaṇi and dāṭu prayōga-s.
The selected varṇa-s portray Dēvi in her dual roles as supreme cosmic power and compassionate mother, weaving themes of surrender, divine protection, and grace into their musical fabric. Through this synthesis of technical brilliance and devotional intensity, Subramaniam’s varṇa-s stand as both pedagogically valuable and spiritually elevating. |
| Author: Mrs BHAVANA U
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Submitted on : 16-Sep-2025
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Arts : India/Music/Classical Music |
| Journal ID : 8669-868-9345
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| Views: 76/ Downloads :0 |
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