Therapeutic Notes, by Swapan K Banerjee

26/6/2020

Trotting along the winding by-lanes with my friends in Varanasi, I suddenly strayed from the group. Strain of a morning raga drove me to a hole in the wall. My eyes misting up, I met an American flautist there.

Finding a kindred soul he opened up: “Years ago, when I lost my child, I couldn’t stay at home. Hitch-hiking, I landed here quite unplanned. One morning, feeling disconsolate, I heard someone playing Shehnai. Slowly my stone-heavy heart melted away. I then immersed myself and got dissolved into it. Now just the sight of this instrument acts as a balm …”

Paritosh Chandra Dugar

26/6/2020 06:05:02 pm

Yes. Music works wonder. Your story reminds me of John Dryden's "Alexander's Feast; or the Power of Music." Well done, Swapan.

Swapan k Banerjee

26/6/2020 07:30:26 pm

Thanks very much Paritosh for your inspiring comment.

Sue Clayton

27/6/2020 02:59:37 am

Music can always soothe a troubled soul.

Swapan k Banerjee

27/6/2020 05:14:00 am

You're so perceptive, Sue.

Krystyna

27/6/2020 03:46:15 pm

Beautifully written, Swapan. The power of music is undeniable. Pity the person who cannot hear.

Your story reminds me of my visit to Varanasi in 2013. Soothing music could’ve possibly helped in my walks when crossing the chaotic traffic on main roads.

Swapan k Banerjee

27/6/2020 05:27:15 pm

I thank you Krystyna for your heartwarming response.

Hope the spiritual riches reaped from your visit to Varanasi will spill out on to the page anytime soon. Every good wish.

Comments are closed.

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