Daijiworld Media Network – Mandi

Mandi, Jul 2: Indian classical Ragas have a measurable impact on brain activity, enhancing attention and emotional well-being, according to a joint study by IIT Mandi and IIT Kanpur. The groundbreaking research, published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, highlights how these ancient musical structures can support mental wellness by influencing the brain’s neural patterns.

The study revealed that specific Ragas, rooted in Indian classical music, help regulate emotions, reduce stress, and promote mental stability. “Each Raga is crafted to evoke specific emotional states, guiding the mind from tension to tranquillity,” said Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi. “This is not just art, but a refined science of emotion and consciousness.”

Using EEG microstate analysis — a real-time brain-mapping technique — the researchers studied momentary neural activity in 40 participants. They observed consistent shifts in brain microstates related to focus and emotional regulation after listening to certain Ragas, indicating deeper engagement and cognitive clarity.

For instance, Raga Darbari was shown to reduce mind-wandering and enhance attention, making it ideal for improving focus before exams or meetings. Raga Jogiya, on the other hand, activated emotional regulation pathways, offering calmness in times of grief or emotional overload.

“The transitions were repeatable and not random,” said Ashish Gupta, lead author of the study. “This suggests that Indian classical music can indeed serve as a powerful tool for mental well-being.”

Prof. Behera emphasised that the concept of “Raga Chikitsa” — therapeutic use of Ragas — has long existed in India. “What’s new is the scientific validation using EEG and neuroimaging. With structured implementation, this can become a scalable mental health solution through wellness apps, education, and corporate modules.”

Co-author Prof. Braj Bhushan of IIT Kanpur noted that the study “unlocks a new path for personalised, music-based mental health support rooted in Indian cultural wisdom.”

Interestingly, a parallel study on Western participants confirmed similar neurological effects, underlining the universal power of classical music in enhancing brain function and emotional stability.