Ashok Kumara studied South Indian classical vocal music for twelve years while growing up in India. In 2003 he awakened to his inner calling for spiritual evolution to pursue music. For five years, he performed systematic research on the mastery of body, breath, emotions and mind, integrating scientifically based techniques from hatha yoga, pranayama, mantra yoga, dhyana yoga and Indian classical vocal music.
Q. As a musician, teacher and creative artiste, what experience would you regard as the most valuable and why?
A. Deep experiences of love through the union with the sound vibration, musical notes, musical beauty and the students, have been the most valuable, as they revealed celestial aspects of my Cosmic Self (soul) and opened the doorway for a joyful life filled with magical manifestations.
Q. What are your thoughts on adherence to tradition vs. experimentation and creative expression?
A. Each tradition is the result of an intelligent being’s experimentation and creative expression, has a starting time, and is relevant for that age and place, and may not be relevant in a different age or place. New traditions relevant for this age and place must be created, to keep the art forms alive.
Q. In these times, the students are so busy with their school work. What is the scope for practice or sadhana? How important is it? Is there a more efficient way?
A. Time is only an excuse. A student who has the passion, commitment and priority will figure out how to make time and energy for sadhana (regular disciplined practice). The most efficient way to pursue a complex art form is OBSESSION. In this mode, student lives and breathes the art form, and integrates art form into his/her daily life.
Q. Any other thoughts?
A. Yes, I have a message for parents. Don’t burden your children with too many activities. Select a few activities based on your children’s passion level, and let them explore those deeply, while allowing them sufficient non-video/computer play time which is very important for the development of the brain. While academics is important, it mostly stimulates the left (analytical) brain. Art forms stimulate both the left brain and the right (creative) brain, as well as the mid-brain and pineal gland (intuition and self-awareness). Be an “intelligent parent”, not the “best parent” as defined by the society. To be an intelligent parent, you must learn to listen to your child’s deepest needs and understand what is really important. Focus on your and your child’s energy level and joy, as these are the most fundamental.