Psychological Benefits of Carnatic Music: A Narrative Literature Review
Sahil Suresh
*
IILM University, Greater Noida, India.
Satarupa Deka
Assam Down Town University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
India’s classical music is a timeless reflection of its culture, spirituality, and emotions. Among its two main traditions—Hindustani and Carnatic—Carnatic music from South India is especially known for its detailed melodic structures (ragas), rhythmic patterns (talas), and deep emotional expression through voice. Each raga is believed to bring out a particular feeling or rasa such as happiness, peace, devotion, or compassion. Even when performed on instruments, Carnatic music retains its soulful quality and emotional depth, creating a sense of connection between sound, mind, and heart. In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding how this traditional art form supports emotional and mental well-being. As people seek more holistic and natural ways to maintain health, music is being recognized as a gentle, non-medical approach that is both meaningful and accessible. This paper reviews existing studies on the effects of Carnatic music on psychological well-being. Research shows that listening to or performing ragas like Bilahari, Shankarabharanam, Kannada, and Vakulabharanam can lift mood, calm the mind, and improve focus, memory, and sleep. People of all ages—from children to adults, including those facing emotional challenges—have shown better emotional balance, concentration, and satisfaction in life through regular engagement with Carnatic music. Beyond emotional benefits, several studies also point to its physical effects. Certain ragas have been found to slow heart rate, relax the body, and lower stress hormones, suggesting that music can naturally calm the nervous system. Singing, listening, or moving rhythmically to music also helps individuals become more mindful, expressive, and socially connected, all of which are essential for a healthy state of mind. Although the available research is still limited and more extensive studies are needed, the findings so far highlight the power of Carnatic music as a culturally rooted and cost-effective way to promote emotional and psychological well-being. Blending such traditional practices with modern approaches to mental health can offer a more balanced and human-centered path toward overall wellness. This review highlights how music can play a positive role in improving mental health and emotional well-being. It suggests that music may offer a gentle and effective alternative to medication, which often has side effects. By exploring existing research, this paper adds to the growing understanding of how music can be used as a safe and supportive approach to mental health care.
Keywords: Carnatic-based music therapy, music therapy, psychological well-being, ragas, mental health, emotional regulation, cognitive function, experimental study, cross-population research