'Potential'
Jain Temple: (हिन्दी मे मीनिंग): The Oshwal Centre
The Music: I knew that I wanted to make another 'Meditation' video. This time, paying a respectful homage to a location that befits the tranquility and solemnity that is meditation itself. I was also very grateful that Jesal and Shiv were keen to work with me again. Before the pandemic, I met Jesal for lunch and I spoke to her about a piece of Indian inspired music that I had just finished - She loved it. This piece turned into the track 'Potential'.
I was heavily influenced by the Indian composers/musicians Hari Prasad Chaurasia; 'Eternity' and A.R.Rahman; 'Earth 1947' soundtrack. Initially, I had hoped to work on developing the track further, through working with a small ensemble of south asian percussionists - Unfortunately, the global pandemic saw an end to that collaboration idea - Maybe next time. Subsequently, apart from Shiv's inspirited flute playing at the end of this 8 mins piece, I play all of the instruments on this recording. Vocalist, Kirithika Dayananthan provided some soothing raga (pronounced RAH-guh) inspiration to accompany my sparce vocal harmonies.
The Location: The Oshwal centre is a stunning location, and is also my neighbour. I was grateful and humbled that they allowed us to film on their grounds. As usual, video maker, Qaiser has done an excellent job capturing Jesal's intuitive dance to create a sublime sense of transient meditation within the sumptuous 70 acres grounds.
I am very pleased with the final video, and equally proud of my music. I continue to be grateful to all those who trust and support me....Infinite potential indeed.
''Moral Questions I' - Meditations 1 & 2: mɛdɪˈteɪʃn
Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo
Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo is a Buddhist. She is an author, teacher and founder of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Himachal Pradesh, India. A while back, I came across a few of her Youtube videos, and found inspiration with her thoughts on the idea of potential. Jetsunma is a bhikṣuṇī in the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism.
Potential: 'Meditation' Video Pt. 1
"We are always given the message that our potential is limited, which is so sad.
Actually, our potential is infinite"
Buddha Nature: 'Meditation' Video Pt. 2
The term "Buddha-nature" (佛性) refers to what is essential in the human being. Meditation quietens the mind and goes beyond ordinary thought.