Single Review–Liberate by Radhika Vekaria

Melodic Transcendence: The Essence of Radhika Vekaria’s ‘Liberate’

Liberation is a frequently recurring concept in literature and social studies. Different kinds of literary narratives explore liberation in different connotations, layers and levels. The superior form of liberation spiritualists are interested in is liberation of the soul. My listening of Radhika Vekaria’s single was such an excitement for me in surfacing the dexterousness of an artist in composing a song that nourishes the spiritual aspirations of seekers.

“Liberate” by Vekaria transcends the definitions of conventional music; it’s the soul’s search set to melody. Her composition draws heavily from her personal experiences and spiritual insights. Vekaria’s introspective lyrics lay bare her struggles with doubt and darkness, intertwined with a steadfast devotion to seeking answers to the profound questions of life. The artist’s notes say how Lord Vishnu’s teachings have always helped her with the much needed anchor and support. Vekaria’s personal struggles and spiritual search correlate to the struggles and search of every human. ‘Liberate’ is all about the arduous, yet transformative nature of the human experience.

Central to her musical narrative is the Maha Mritjunjaya mantra, a sacred invocation to Lord Shiva, which the artist says has always served as her lifeline during moments of turmoil. The reverberations of this mantra offer solace and sanctuary, serving as a guiding light amidst chaos. Through “Liberate,” Vekaria extends an invitation to listeners to partake in a shared journey of human existence—a quest for connection, a battle against inner demons, and ultimately, a pursuit of inner peace and liberation.

With each note, she invites us into her world, where music becomes a powerful conduit for healing and transformation. “Liberate” resonates not only as a testament to personal growth but also as a universal ode to the resilience of the human spirit.

Incidentally, Radhika’s single ‘Liberate’ is one of the most powerful rendering of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra (Rig Veda 7.59.12) I came across.

The prayerful verse reads thus:

Tryambak Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtee-Vardhanam।

Urvarukmeva Bandhanaan Mrtyoh-Mrukshiya MaaMmrataat ॥

Meaning, I adore you the three-eyed Lord Shiva, who is the lord of everything, fragrant and nourishes all beings. Free me from the worldly bondage as a ripe cucumber automatically gets freed from its stalk.

Conclusion

No two humans are governed by a common fate; however, there is something common about the experiences, struggles and life’s search that are characteristic of human life. There is a profound purpose for human life, realized in soul’s search for liberation. In this regard, Vekaria has accomplished a masterly composition in ‘Liberate’ that speaks in the language of the heart conveying the deepest aspirations of the soul. Listen to it and you will have many reasons to add it to your soul’s music collection.