Regarding Vedic Svaras

[Yasoda Jivan Dasa]

Respected scholars,

I have a humble question regarding the recitation of the Śukla Yajurveda. In North India, among Śukla Yajurveda Brahmins, the Vedic svaras are often indicated along with hasta-svaras (hand movements). However, during prayoga and yajña, I understand that these hand movements are generally not used.

In South India, I have observed that Brahmins belonging to Kṛṣṇa Yajurveda traditions recite the Veda with all the svaras clearly audible in their pronunciation. However, in the North Indian Śukla Yajurveda recitation that I have heard, the distinct sound of the svaras does not seem to be as apparent, and the svaras appear to be indicated primarily through hasta-sañcālana.

Could learned scholars kindly enlighten me on the reason for this difference? Is this simply a difference in the traditional recitation methods of the respective śākhās, or is there a specific rule or tradition in the Śukla Yajurveda concerning the audible pronunciation of the svaras?

I would be very grateful for any clarification from scholars who are familiar with these recitation traditions.