“Alai,” a collection of vibrant Tamil language songs, was written and composed by Sounds of Isha during a series of Mahasathsangs with Sadhguru across South India. Called “Ananda Alai – Wave of Bliss,” these Mahasathsangs have been spreading exuberance and joy in several cities and towns in the past few years. Sadhguru’s main aim in conducting this series was to impart a simple spiritual process, touching the lives of as many people as possible. It is Sadhguru’s wish that at least “one drop spirituality” must enter into every human being, and hundreds of thousands of people have received this blessing so far.

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Traveling with Sadhguru to each of these cities, Sounds of Isha were inspired when they witnessed the depth of the impact that Sadhguru’s Mahasathsangs had on the people. It was then that they composed the song “Alai Alai.” which captures the very essence of this wave of bliss. An unforgettably catchy tune with Tamil lyrics, simple, yet profound. “Alai Alai” does not fail to leave anyone untouched – even those who do not understand Tamil! Going by the reception this one song received, it was clear that more like these were needed – songs that would touch people and at the same time, get them up on their feet. That is what gave birth to the idea of a complete album in Tamil, “Alai.”

Sounds of Isha faced several challenges during the making of “Alai.” To make sure they got the right lyrics with a wonderful meaning, they spoke to several Isha volunteers, seeking their sharing, words of inspiration, longing, seeking, surrender, joy, and everything else they had experienced in the presence of Sadhguru. Once the lyrics were ready, they had to be set into beautiful, perfect tunes – a process that took many days on end. After several rejected attempts, “Alai” emerged, complete in its present form.

The music in this album makes use of a variety of vocalists and a wide range of instruments including nadaswaram, the guitar, the electric guitar, violin, flute, keyboard, thavil, tappu, stick dhol and other folk percussions. This compilation of songs consist of slower devotional numbers as well as upbeat folky tunes. What makes “Alai” completely unique is that it was partially recorded while Sounds of Isha were on the road, in various cities. The vocals for the feature song, “Alai Alai” were recorded live in the Adiyogi Alayam at the Isha Yoga Center, with over 100 residents and volunteers offering their voices in the chorus. A few words of inspiration from Sadhguru himself are included!

We are pleased to announce that the CD “Alai” will be released as a part of the Mahashivratri celebrations at Isha Yoga Center, on 10th March, 2013. Also, due to the fantastic response we have had for the album Vairagya: Bonding with Beyond, we have once more decided not to fix any price for this album. It is important to us that the songs of “Alai” touch as many as possible and hence you are at liberty to decide what you would like to contribute towards the download. Please visit: http://soundsofisha.org

It is our sincere hope that ‘Alai’ plays a significant role in this wave to engulf humanity with bliss!