Digital Voice Analysis Using PRAAT Software in Singers: An Objective Acoustic Evaluation

Background: Voice quality plays a crucial role in singers, where even minor deviations can affect performance. In Ayurveda, voice (Swara) reflects the functional integrity of Prana and Udana Vata along with Kapha support. Although singers may appear clinically normal, subtle physiological variations in voice often go undetected by routine examination. Nasya Karma is prime treatment which is indicated for Voice improvement. Objective assessment using acoustic analysis software such as PRAAT offers a scientific method for early detection and monitoring of vocal characteristics. Aim: To evaluate voice parameters in singers using PRAAT software and establish normative acoustic values with Nasya Karma. Materials and Methods: 2 groups of singers without any vocal pathology were selected. Voice samples were recorded under standardized conditions and analyzed using PRAAT software. Assessment was done before and after Administration of Nasya Karma. Acoustic parameters such as Fundamental Frequency (F0), Jitter local, Shimmer local and Harmonic-to-Noise Ratio (HNR) were evaluated. Subjective assessment was done using GRBASI scale and Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Results: All participants demonstrated acoustic parameters within normal physiological limits. Minimal variations were observed, reflecting fine modulation of voice associated with vocal usage. PRAAT analysis provided precise and reproducible data correlating with perceptual findings. Conclusion: PRAAT software is an effective, objective and non-invasive tool for evaluating voice characteristics in singers. It serves as a valuable baseline assessment method for future comparative and therapeutic studies in Ayurveda and voice sciences.