Munish Sood
Mandi
At a time when stress and lifestyle disorders are on the rise, a musician from Mandi is drawing from India’s ancient wisdom to promote holistic well-being. Deepak Mattu, a seasoned music practitioner with over 25 years of experience, is actively working to revive and popularize music therapy as an effective tool for mental, emotional, and physical balance.
Music therapy, a concept deeply rooted in the ancient Indian scripture Sama Veda, is believed to influence human consciousness and restore inner harmony when practiced with proper knowledge and technique. Building on this foundation, Mattu has initiated a structured effort to connect people with the therapeutic potential of music.
Having devoted decades to musical practice and research, Mattu is now offering both online and offline music therapy sessions. Around 50 participants, including individuals from overseas, have already benefited from his programs. His approach combines elements of traditional sound therapy with yoga, aiming to guide individuals toward a stress-free and balanced lifestyle.
Beyond individual sessions, Mattu is also taking this initiative to educational institutions, where he is introducing students to the concept of music therapy. His outreach focuses on encouraging young minds to adopt positive practices and stay away from substance abuse and other social challenges through engagement with music.
“Globally, music therapy is gaining recognition as an effective healing method, but in India, we are gradually losing touch with our own rich traditions,” Mattu said. “Through a combination of yoga and music, my effort is to help people reconnect with themselves and lead more peaceful lives.”
He emphasized that even short, mindful engagement with music can have a noticeable impact. “In today’s fast-paced life, individuals rarely find time for self-reflection. Even listening to music attentively for a few minutes can reduce fatigue and elevate mood. With regular practice, music therapy can significantly reduce stress levels,” he added.
Participants who have undergone these sessions describe the experience as transformative. Radhika and Seema, among the attendees, noted that the meditative techniques used during the therapy helped them achieve deep relaxation and renewed energy. They described it as a unique and effective method for stress relief and emotional rejuvenation.
A well-established name in Mandi’s music fraternity, Deepak Mattu has trained numerous students who have made their mark in the field. Known for his skills in songwriting, composition, and singing, he has also released multiple music albums over the years.
With his current initiative, Mattu is expanding his role beyond performance and teaching—positioning music as a medium of healing and social transformation, and striving to reintroduce an ancient Indian practice to modern society in a meaningful and impactful way
