GANDHARVA Millions of Gandharvas hail Thee, O Lord! (Bhairo Kabir, p. 1163) In whose house there are Ganas (attendants of gods), Gandharvas, sages and where helpless musicians sing….. (Malar Namdev, p. 1292) A Gandharva is half-man, half-bird. Gandharvas are celestial minstrels. Vishnu Purana states that they were bom from Brahma. They are musicians of heaven and inhabit Indra-loka. They witness the actions of men. They generally had their dwelling in the sky or atmosphere. One of their other duty was the preparation of soma-juice for the gods. The apsaras were their “wives or mistresses.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Gandharva in Hindu Mythology and Quotes in Guru Granth Sahib
Gandharvas, celestial beings celebrated in Hindu mythology, are renowned for their unmatched artistry, especially in music and the performing arts. Often described as divine musicians, they bridge the realms of gods and humans, embodying creativity, elegance, and devotion. Their legacy not only enriches Hindu tradition but also finds subtle resonance in the teachings of Sikhism, as expressed in the Guru Granth Sahib.
Gandharvas in Hindu Mythology
Gandharvas are described in various Hindu texts, including the Vedas, Puranas, and epics such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana. As heavenly musicians, they perform for the gods, creating a celestial ambiance through their songs and dances. Gandharvas are said to reside in celestial realms like Indra’s court, where they bring joy through their artistic expressions.
In addition to their musical talents, Gandharvas play a role as messengers and intermediaries between humans and deities. They are often associated with love and romance, symbolizing the harmony and beauty of divine creation. Their artistic pursuits are seen as a form of devotion, offering their skills to honor the divine.
One of the prominent stories involving Gandharvas is their presence during significant events in the Mahabharata. For example, Arjuna’s marriage to Chitrangada and encounters with Gandharva beings showcase their influence and connection to the human world.
References in Guru Granth Sahib
While the Guru Granth Sahib does not explicitly mention Gandharvas by name, its themes of devotion through music and the arts resonate deeply with the role of Gandharvas in Hindu mythology. Key teachings include:
- Music as a Path to the Divine: The Guru Granth Sahib emphasizes kirtan (devotional singing) as a central aspect of spiritual practice. Just as Gandharvas use their music to honor the gods, Sikhs are encouraged to sing hymns in praise of the Creator, creating a direct connection between their soul and the Divine.
- Unity in Harmony: The scripture underscores the importance of achieving inner and outer harmony through devotion, a principle that aligns with the Gandharvas’ ability to bring cosmic balance through their artistry.
- Transience of Beauty: The Guru Granth Sahib reminds believers that worldly beauty, art, and talents are transient, and only the remembrance of the Divine Name (Naam) leads to eternal peace. This philosophical lesson complements the Gandharvas’ role as symbols of fleeting yet profound beauty. Spiritual Insights
Gandharvas, with their celestial music and devotion, inspire a deeper appreciation for the arts as a form of spiritual expression. The Guru Granth Sahib enriches this understanding by directing devotees to use art and music as tools for devotion, emphasizing humility and the remembrance of the Divine.
