Gandharva is a term used for distinct human beings in Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. They are husbands of the Apsaras and are male nature spirits. They feature usually as a horse, bird or in some cases are part animal. In classical music in India, it is a name used to signify skilled singers. Their musical skills are superb and make wonderful music for gods residing in their palaces. Gandharvas are believed to guard the Soma and portrayed as singers in courts of the Gods. They perform the role of messengers between humans and gods. As per Hindu law, a Gandharva marriage takes place without any formal rituals and only mutual consent is required.
In the Mahabharata the Gandharvas have association as singers and dancers with the Devas and are formidable warriors with the Yakshas. They are described as spread across a range of regions. The Gandharvas are given different parentage include creatures of the Munis, of Vac, of Kasyapa, of Prajapati, of Arishta or of Brahma. In Buddhist cosmology, one of the lowest ranking Devas is the Gandharvas. They are subject to the Guardian of the East, ‘The Great King Dhrtarastra’ and come under the classification of Cāturmahārājakāyika Devas. It is believed that on practicing ‘Janavasabha Sutta, DN.18 the most basic form of ethics, beings are born again amongst the Gandharvas. Gandharvas are known well for their expertise as musicians. They have connection with flowers, trees, can fly through air and dwell in scents of blossoms, sap and bark. They live in the wilderness and could distract a monk meditating by himself.
