In Indian philosophical/theological thought, every element of existence is attributed to some form of spiritual significance. For example, food is categorized into Sattvik, Rajasic, and Tamasic types, each associated with qualities that affect one’s mind and body—promoting purity, passion, or inertia, respectively. Similarly, this symbolism is also present in music; the sitar, for instance, embodies spiritual concepts through its design and the unique sounds it produces.
The sitar’s design is a physical manifestation of Indian metaphysical concepts. Its long, hollow neck symbolizes the spiritual journey toward enlightenment and the ascent of spiritual energy through the chakras in yogic philosophy. This upward extension represents the individual’s path from the earthly realm to higher states of consciousness. The large resonating gourd chamber, crafted from the calabash fruit, embodies the cosmic womb—the source of all creation and existence. This chamber amplifies sound and signifies the universe’s boundless capacity to nurture and sustain life. The union of the neck and the gourd mirrors the interconnectedness of the microcosm within us (Pindanda) and the macrocosm of the limitless universe (Brahmanda). This reflects the belief that individual souls are intrinsically linked to the universal spirit.
Central to Indian classical music is the philosophy of Nada Brahma, meaning “the universe is sound.” This belief posits that all creation emanates from a primordial sound—Om, the continuous, subtle vibration that underlies all existence. In yogic and spiritual traditions, this untapped sound, known as Anahata Nada, can be heard internally during deep states of meditation. The sitar physically embodies these concepts through its design and function. Typically featuring around 18 to 21 strings, the instrument includes sympathetic strings that resonate without direct touch. Clearly, these unseen vibrations physically manifest the idea of Anahata Nada, symbolizing the interconnected energies permeating the universe. Thus, each note played on the sitar is not merely a musical expression but a meditative exploration. The instrument’s capacity for microtonal variation allows musicians to navigate the subtle nuances of ragas—melodic frameworks that evoke specific emotions, times of day, and spiritual states—serving as a conduit for exploring the sonic origin of all beings.
Playing the sitar is a journey toward self-realization. Musicians engage in riyaz, a disciplined practice that transcends technical proficiency to become a form of spiritual exercise. Through this rigorous dedication, the player seeks to align the self (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman), echoing the philosophical pursuit of unity with the cosmos. The repetitive cycles of practice mirror the cyclical nature of the universe, embodying the belief in eternal recurrence and the impermanence of the material world. Additionally, Improvisation within the raga framework reflects the concept of Lila, the divine play. Life and creation are seen as spontaneous, joyous expressions of the divine, and the sitarist participates in this cosmic dance through each performance. This approach contrasts with Western musical traditions that often emphasize structured compositions, highlighting a fundamental difference in how cultures perceive order, creativity, and the role of the artist.
Ultimately, a closer look at the sitar reveals that it is not just an instrument but a philosophical tool—a means of exploring and expressing the profound mysteries of existence. Its strings vibrate with the questions and insights that have shaped human thought for millennia. By engaging with the sitar, we are invited to listen more deeply, perceive the subtle harmonies of the universe, and recognize our place within the grand symphony of life.
Check out a video of the sitar from one of the world’s most renowned sitar players here!