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ओम मंगलम Om Mangalan
Shri Atmasiddhi - Self Realization
The original Gujarati verses of Shree Atmasiddhi Shastra were composed by Paramkrupaludev Shrimad Rajchandra almost 100 years ago. This 142 stanza poem has won very high praises within the Jain Community - some would even claim that in this epic poem lies the essence of Jain philosophy.
Praveen & Darshana
Pujya Shree Brahmachariji has rendered these in English Rhyme, and this accompanying English rhyme is also provided in the accompanying notes. I wish that the accompanying Gujarati rhyme was also provided in the English alphabet - to help people who cannot read Gujarati but would like to sing along to the words.
Music: Ashit Desari
Om Mangalam
Praveen and Darshana sing the verses in a duet form. They alternate after each two verses and throughout are interspersed with Santoor and flute music. Also to add variety the tune alternates between two main tunes which breaks the monotony for what is a long rendition.
This is a collection of some old and some more contemporary Stavans. For me this is the most accomplished and the best of the three CDs. The compositions are richer, more creative and varied with lots of interesting musical touches, all of which you cannot take in one listening.
For those interested in listening to the Atmasiddhi, this is a very pleasant way to do it.
The music has been composed by Ashit Desai who is one of the leading authorities and well-known contemporary composers of Gujarati music. The instruments include Flute, Vibraphone, Santoor, Sitar and Mandolin, but to me the best thing is the Bass Guitar which gives a stronger rhythmic feel.
Om Mangalam is the type of CD you can listen to in different environments. You can have it playing in the background for "atmosphere". You can also sit in a quiet room and appreciate the quality of music. Finally you could use it to meditate on the words and meaning behind some simple, easy to understand and well known Stavans.
- શ્રીમદ રાજચંદ્ર) | શ્રી આત્મસિધ્ધિ
Self Realization Praveen & Darshana
Ajay Punatar is a Management Consultant and a musician who lives in London. With his wife Rajvee, he regularly performs at social events such as weddings and dandia-raas.
You can order CDs from either: Media Officer, Young Jains, PO BOX 58, Stanmore, Middx, HA7 3YD, UK (See Young Jains Book Club page) Or directly from Ramesh Bhuta on Tel +1 (925) 426 1366 or email: rbhuta@aol.com
Music: Praveen Chaddha
July - September 1999 • Jain Spirit
29
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