Anand's Book Launch Explores Music, Spirituality, and Anti-Caste Resistance Through Kabir's Legacy
January 21, 2025Kabir's influence is evident in modern society, with his verses appearing in various forms, including textbooks and memes, and he enjoys a cult status among youth, as seen in events like the Kabir Festival in Mumbai.
Anand honors the legacy of Baba Behram Khan, a Dhrupad maestro, whom he regards as the 'Babasaheb of music' for his efforts in democratizing music education.
Anand pondered what Kabir's role would be in contemporary society, questioning whether he would adapt to modern platforms or remain true to his roots.
Anand, an Indian author and Dhrupad singer, recently launched his book 'The Notebook of Kabir: Thinner than Water, Fiercer than Fire' at the India Habitat Centre, delving into themes of music, spirituality, and anti-caste resistance.
His journey with music began with disillusionment towards the Brahminical framework of Carnatic music, but he found renewed inspiration through Kabir's teachings in 2013.
In his exploration, Anand recognizes the Bhakti tradition and the contributions of poets like Chokhamela, Gorakhnath, and Namdev, who challenged caste hierarchies with their truths.
Chokhamela, an untouchable laborer from Maharashtra, faced significant caste barriers while attempting to access the Vithoba temple, living in quiet resistance and composing critiques of the caste system.
Despite being barred from the temple he revered in Pandharpur, Chokhamela's devotional poetry left a lasting impact, as he ultimately passed away just outside its doors.
During his performance, Anand sang Chokhamela's verses, which boldly denounce the taint of sacred texts and the caste system, creating a powerful atmosphere.
Anand also performed on the tanpura, highlighting the legacies of poets like BR Ambedkar, Kabir, and Chokhamela, linking their works to music as an act of rebellion.
His performance included verses by Gorakhnath that critique ritualistic practices, emphasizing the necessity for purity in spiritual pursuits.
Anand illustrates in his book how Kabir transcended the limitations of his time, becoming a universal figure whose words resonate across cultures and generations.
He challenges the notion of an 'authentic' Kabir, arguing that all music and poetry are influenced by the voices that came before them.
Summary based on 1 source