Mangaia Vadyam Or Piping

It is one of the many peculiar Hindu customs that all auspicious rites and ceremonies are heralded and followed by what is called the Mangala Vadyam. This is nothing but the chorus of music made by a piper, a drummer and a man who keeps tune using a Jalra or two sonorous metallic discs. The rich and poor alike observe this custom and consequently many undergo training in this art from a particular community and earn their livelihood.

This is in fact a profession which gives a good income provided the piper becomes an expert and especially efficient. Many famous pipers have come and gone in Southern India who were considered to be geniuses in the art.

According to the nature of the tune played, Music can either calm down or rouse the passions in men and animals. In ancient times, music was introduced in temples to soothe the devotees and thus to help them to feel the presence of God in a calm attitude of mind. When the soothing influence of music is recognized, then its introduction during the performance of auspicious rites and ceremonies would become intelligible.

The ancient Hindus had recognized the power of mental discharge of men as thoughts. In those days there were many strong-willed but easily excited people, since they were beginners in Yoga. They had not brought their passions and emotions under control. Further there may be others and those are not having very friendly feelings towards the people for whom the ceremonies are arranged. These, by their emotions and thoughts, counteract the force of love and good-will directed towards the party. So in those days music of a particular nature was resorted to keep all people in a soothing temper to give the party their cumulative blessings and good will as well. Now-a-days all these principles appear to have been lost sight.