Madokaram Prashanth Iyengar
Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam Asthana Vidwan
With over three and a half decades of dedication to Karnataka Music and the divine instrument Veena, Vidwan Prashanth Iyengar continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide with his innovative techniques and soulful renditions. His performances stand as a testament to tradition, expertise, and a deep understanding of the art form.
A Musical Prodigy and Innovator
Prashanth Iyengar was born into a family of musicians and scholars connected to the Mysore Royal Court. His musical journey began at the age of five, with an intrinsic connection to the Veena, nurtured by his mother, Smt. Padmasini Narasimhachar. By the age of eight, Prashanth could effortlessly perform complex compositions of Karnataka Music.
A direct descendant of the Saint composer Sri Tyagaraja, Prashanth has enriched his music through rigorous training under the Mysore Subbanna school of Veena. His performances are characterized by his unique playing style and innovation, including the addition of sympathetic strings to the Veena, which enhances its natural reverberation. Prashanth’s music captivates listeners with rich nuances and varied patterns, blending tradition with creativity.


Achievements.
World Record for 25-Hour Veena Marathon
On April 21, 2010, Prashanth Iyengar set a milestone by performing a 25-hour Veena concert at Srirangapattana, which was recognized by the Limca Book of Records.
Innovator in Music Education
Prashanth was the first musician to evolve an integrated system of learning combining Music, Theatre, and Yoga while serving in the Government of Karnataka’s Directorate of Textbooks.
Composer of Varnams in all 72 Melakartha Ragas
Prashanth Iyengar is one of the few composers to have created compositions in all the 72 Melakartha Ragas. He is the second-youngest composer to achieve this feat, after the legendary Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna.
Pandarika Vitthala Mela Veena Reconstruction
Prashanth successfully reconstructed the ancient Pandarika Vitthala Mela Veena, as described in the 16th-century musical treatise Nartana Nirnaya. His live demonstration at India’s premier cultural center, Indira Gandhi National Center for Arts, was highly appreciated.

The Science of Playing Veena
First Ever Research Work Related to Human Body and its adaptation to Instrument Playing In the history of Karnataka Music – authored by Prashanth Iyengar
Welcome to the enchanting world of the Veena—a revered musical instrument that transcends centuries, cultures, and human experience. The Veena, more than just an instrument, is a journey into the essence of life itself, harmonizing the physical, mental, and spiritual into a singular flow of divine melody. For over three and a half decades, I have had the privilege of dedicating myself to this instrument, serving my cherished deity, Lakshminarasimha, through the captivating art of Veena playing. It is with this love and devotion that I invite you to join me on a remarkable journey, exploring the unique science that breathes life into this ancient art form.
In “The Science of Playing Veena,” we delve into the extraordinary synergy between the body, mind, and spirit that elevates Veena playing to an art of unparalleled depth. Our journey begins with a fascinating exploration of the Veena player’s anatomy, revealing how each physical aspect is precisely attuned to create music that is as moving as it is mystical. From the agile dance of the fingers across the strings to the silent symphony unfolding in the inner ear, we uncover the intricate ways in which our biology serves this divine instrument, transforming sound into an experience of transcendence.
As we journey further, we encounter the profound physiological dimensions that underlie mastery of the Veena. Veena playing is far more than physical movement; it is a rhythmic alignment of heartbeat, breath, and intent—a graceful symbiosis that emerges when the body flows in perfect harmony with the instrument. Here, we find that playing the Veena is an exercise in mindfulness, uniting the physical with the metaphysical in a symphony of presence and intention.
But the Veena’s true magic lies beyond the realm of the senses, nestled within the very soul of its music. Across millennia, Veena players have used this instrument to reach into the spiritual realm, breaking the boundaries of the ordinary to touch the divine. Together, we explore the spiritual science underlying the Veena’s music, discovering how it serves as a bridge between the mortal and the divine, elevating both the musician and the listener to realms of profound peace and joy.
Throughout this book, we journey into the hidden science of the Veena, uncovering the layers of biological insight, physiological rhythm, and spiritual essence that define this art form. In the Veena’s melodies, I have found secrets that extend beyond its captivating sound—insights that entwine body, mind, and spirit with each note. Understanding these aspects enriches the experience for both performer and audience, offering a glimpse into the timeless artistry of the Veena.
This book is more than a guide for musicians; it speaks to anyone with a desire to experience the healing and transformative power of music. Exploring the Veena’s unique blend of science and spirituality, we reveal how the instrument’s rhythms enhance hand-eye coordination, stimulate cognition, and deepen emotional intelligence. For the Veena player, these insights alleviate performance anxiety, heighten expression, and reveal the infinite joy found in every performance.
As we embark on this journey together, I hope each reader—whether a seasoned musician or a curious spirit—finds profound inspiration within the pages of “The Science of Playing Veena.” May this guide shine a light on the sacred relationship between the Veena Maestro and their instrument, preserving the wisdom and legacy passed down through generations.
May this journey, blessed by Lakshminarasimha, stir something eternal within you. May it ignite a lasting appreciation for the resplendent harmony between the human spirit and the timeless beauty of the Veena.
With blessings,
Lakshminarasimha Dasa
Veena Maestro Vidwan Prashanth Iyengar M N
17-01-2024, Bangalore
Varnam Compositions in 72 Melakarta Ragas
- Unique Bhakti-Bound Composition Compared to Traditional Varnams with Nayaka-Nayaki Bhavas
- Second Youngest Composer After Dr. Balamuralikrishna to Compose Varnams in All 72 Melakarta Ragas
- Well-Structured Compositions Adhering to the Raga Bhava
