Deva's parents are a mystic/artist father and a musically talented mother, she was taught violin, piano and received voice training. By the time she was five years old, she was already chanting the Gayatri Mantra daily, and since that time she continues to integrate meditation into her life.
She has studied Shiatsu, Reflexology, CranioSacral Therapy and Massage, but music remains her first love. The influence of Indian classical music is evident in her singing, although she has never attempted to copy or steal from the tradition. "It just comes naturally," she says, "as if I'd heard it all before, in another life."
Among the numerous letters of appreciation she has received since the release of her albums, many describe how her music has been used to accompany and enhance the sacred passages of birth and death. In fact, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, the world famous author of On Death And Dying, requested that Miten and Deva bring their music to accompany her passing. "We have played for many people," says Deva, "but to play personally for Elizabeth was something I will never forget.”
Teyata
Deva Premal Lyrics
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Bekanze maha bekanze
Radza samudgate soha
The lyrics of Deva Premal's "Teyata" are actually a mantra used in Tibetan Buddhism to invoke the healing power of the Medicine Buddha. The mantra begins with "Teyata," which is the manifestation of the Buddha's form, followed by "Om Bekanze," which roughly translates to "May the medicine take effect now." The repetition of "Bekanze maha bekanze" is a calling upon the omnipresent and omniscient energy of the Medicine Buddha. The mantra ends with "Radza samudgate soha," which means "I offer this prayer to the King of Medicine."
Some interpretations of the lyrics suggest that the repetition of the words is key to unlocking the transformative power of the mantra. The syllables and sounds are believed to create a vibration that brings healing to the physical and spiritual body. In this way, the mantra serves as a powerful tool for meditation and spiritual growth.
The song "Teyata" is one of Deva Premal's most popular pieces, and has been included in several of her albums, including “Love is Space” and “The Essence”. The song has also been covered by several other musicians and has been used in a variety of spiritual practices and healing modalities.
Line by Line Meaning
Teyata om bekanze
We pray for the well-being and healing of all living beings, asking for protection from suffering and harm.
Bekanze maha bekanze
We pray for the strength and power to overcome obstacles and challenges, invoking the blessings of enlightenment and wisdom.
Radza samudgate soha
We offer our devotion and surrender to the divine, recognizing our interconnectedness with all that exists and surrendering our ego to the higher power.
Contributed by Logan B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.