The theory of raga insomnia

Mumbai Education Trust, Bandra, has introduced a six-month certificate course called Music Therapy, that purports to cure a whole range of ailments using traditional Indian ragas. Sunday MiD DAY speaks to founder Sunil Karve to find out more

MET League of Colleges, a conglomerate of 10 educational institutions, is known for its unusual coursesu00a0-- a few summers back, they introduced a course on trichology, or the 'science' of hair. Last year, they offered a six month part-time certificate course in Music Therapy for persons who are trained in music. Now, they plan to start a year-long diploma by October. We spoke to MET League of Colleges founder Sunil Garve to find more.

What is the scientific basis to this course?
It has been said in all our scriptures that music plays an important role as far as the mind is concerned. Further, it is well-established that the mind plays an important role in the health of the body. Through music, you can create the necessary impact on the human nervous system. Different ragas carry different moods, and have a definite impact on the mind. You play a raga, and you can invite the rain Gods!

How does music cure an ailment?
Let's say, someone is suffering from continuous headaches and sleeplessness. While the diagnosis of this ailment is done by doctors, the treatment can be carried out through music. Based on the patient's history, the raga that he needs to hear every day, is decided.

Who is eligible for this course?
Persons who have some knowledge of musicu00a0-- not necessarily only those who have received formal training ufffd and doctors are admitted to this course. As part of the course, students are expected to do a project with a patient. They work with the patient, after deciding what kind of music will work for that particular disorder. At the end of the treatment, the feedback from the patient and doctor is noted. This course has worked very well in the area of gynaecology and neurology.

Who will conduct the course?
Pt. Shashank Katti, a well-known sitartist, has been working in the area of music therapy for the last 12 years, and is the coordinator of the course. The eight faculty members are allopathic doctors, ayurvedic practitioners, homeopaths, psychologists and gynaecologists. They understand the human anatomy and the notes of music. This course is a fusion.
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What will be taught to students?
The basics of the human anatomy, the range of disorders and diseases, and how they are caused. The other bit includes training in classical Indian music. This isn't a course on singing or for professional instrument players. The students are taught ragas and notes on the keyboard.

The course costs Rs 9,000. The next batch will start in the last week of August. Admissions close in mid August.
At: MET Complex, Bandra Reclamation (W), Mumbai.
Call: 26440096