An Investigation into the Characteristics of North Indian Music in W.D. Amaradeva’s Songs

Indian music is entirely based on the concept of raga. A raga is decorated with swara varnas. Observing the characteristics of North Indian ragadhari music, each raga has a specific set of structural principles, which are prakriti, vikriti swara, and purvanga uttaranga swara. Raga anga, swara sangati, raga formative features, raga rasa, etc., are based on theoretical facts. In the process that takes place in the expression of music, it is grasped by fans as a physical, mental, and spiritual process, and its impact on the quality of entertainment is strong. Music, as subjective music and objective music, is analyzed through two aspects. These characteristics of North Indian ragadhari music are described by W.D. Amaradeva. The question of this research was whether Amaradeva has included these aspects in his Sinhala songs. This research aims to investigate this issue by analyzing the data and information related to the great master’s songs. Qualitative research was used as the research method, and the findings were revealed through the use of observational techniques. Recorded songs, written texts, and other relevant documents were used as primary and secondary data. According to this research, when observing the quality of a musical composition, it was noted that the musical qualities of different musical traditions have a direct effect on Amaradeva’s songs. Also, in analyzing the music contained in these selected Sinhala songs, it was observed that Sri Lanka’s geographical proximity to India, together with the long-standing cultural relationship between the two countries, has significantly influenced Sinhala musical traditions and audience preferences. Furthermore, the revival created by various Indian music groups in Sri Lanka has directly affected the musical fandom of the Sinhala people. Moreover, Amaradeva, having completed his formal studies in music in India, returned to Sri Lanka and pioneered the creation of a song art unique to Sri Lanka. Many of his songs, which have been broadcast on the Sri Lankan radio channels, can be identified as a blend of traditional Sri Lankan folk music and Indian ragadhari music. This study concludes that certain features of North Indian ragadhari music can be identified in Amaradeva’s songs, as he possessed a strong knowledge of Indian ragadhari music and incorporated its elements into his compositions.