Search - Various Artists :: Mahabharata

Shevetashvatara Upanishad is Divinity

Richard Morgan | Columbus, Ohio | 06/15/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I found this treasure through the sample album of Real World Records, Bliss. While Bliss is an excellent compilation, the third track, Svetasvatara Upanisad, impressed me beyond words. After a quick search, I noticed this track was a part of the soundtrack to the Mahabharata. I had to buy this CD to hear more.While I did not see the film for this music, I know the Mahabharata is an epic of tremendous length written about two thousand years ago; with epic battles between family and gods with a philosophical prince named Arjuna and his famous charioteer (read the Bhagavad Gita for more details). The CD opens with traditional sounds of Indian tablas followed by Sarmila Roy chanting. Sarmila Roy, the daughter of a writer and dancer, has such a wonderful voice, I was surprised I could not find more of her work available to the public. It is clear and filled with such emotion; it's a pity I have no idea of what she is saying. It's so enticing, I entertained the idea of studying Sanskrit to discover what she was actually saying.As the rest of the soundtrack unfolds, it blends Indian themes with Tibetan, Japanese, and other Asian overtones. The use of the didgeridoo is subtle and adds to the exotic sound. The War is a gripping track: cacophonous themes clashing with thumping drums driving the armies, Indian chanting with battle screams, then finishes with Sarmila Roy singing over the now silent armies.One disconnect, in my opinion, was the story-telling narrator. I think it detracted from the overall flow of the CD and the hypnotic mood it lulls you into. Yet the most luminescent track on this CD is the same as I heard on Bliss, Svetasvatara Upanisad. While Amazon does not have a sample of it listed here, there is one under Bliss. Also, Real World Records' website has a sample. I highly recommend listening to it. While the quality of the recording is much better on the CD, if this track doesn't interest you, do not waste your money on this CD. If you do like it, you will be treated to more of Sarmila Roy's voice through out the soundtrack recording. Overall, I was slightly disappointed there was not more of Sarmila Roy and the rest of the CD was not as good as the final track. Yet, there are bright points and it's worth your time (and money) to listen to the Mahabharata."

Simply irrisistable

hisham | Singapore | 10/17/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I came across this soundtrack while I was browsing through a local record store. By the look of its cover I knew there are something special in store for me, furthermore the cover is unique. I went home, spin it in my CD player put on my headphone and....Phew! its takes me to a journey that I've never imagined. My personal favourite is Ontoro Momo which features the voice of Sharmila Roy. I was suprised that the musicians that contributed to the soundtrack mostly not from India. No matter what this will be one of my personal favourite for long time. Listen to it after a long and busy day at work or during your relaxation. If this CD appeals you then try Hariprasad Chaurasia."

For Indian-inspired international music, this is a must

03/28/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When Brook's film came out, I bought this soundtrack and LOVED IT. Haunting, inspiring, evocative. Even if you have not seen the movie, this is an excellent cd."