What's Hindustani music?
Hindustani music is one of two major forms of classical or art music found in India today, typically finding its representation across the North of India as well as Pakistan and Bangladesh, with the other major form Carnatic music being represented across the South and Sri Lanka. Khayal is one of the primary subgenres of Hindustani vocal music, which is what will be presented today. It represents a confluence of older musical traditions such as Prabandha, Dhrupada, and Qawwali. It developed an identity of its own in the royal courts of India, beginning with the Delhi Sultanate, and culminating at the courts of the Gaekwad kings of Baroda. It is primarily an improvised form, with the song-text providing a basis for spontaneous musical creation within the grammar of the raga (melodic form) and tala (rhythmic cycle). In modern times, Khayal has continued to evolve as one of the many living Indian performing art traditions practiced today.
What will be presented today?
Khayal | Raga Kedar
Raga Kedar is found in many ancient texts and is a fairly popular raga. It is a complex melodic entity that has many vakra (crooked movements). With slides, jumps, and harmonic pairings - it is an aural feast.
Song-Text #1: Patita Pavana Jagadamba Bhavani | Madhyalaya Tintala (medium-paced 16-beat rhythmic cycle) | Pandit S.N. Ratanjankar
Meaning: O Mother of the World! Giver of Life! You are the one who helps lift back up those who have fallen (off their path). You are the invincible Durga, the Great Goddess! All praises be unto you. You are powerful, and give bestow strength to those who are weak.
The celestials, wise ones, and other beings sing your prayers. The seers chant your many names. Please convey upon me your grace, your gaze, as I seek refuge at your feet. The virtuous have come today, O Mother of Grace!
Song-Text #2: Bhavani Jvalamukhi | Drut Ektala (fast-paced 16-beat rhythmic cycle) | Pandit Arijit Mahalanabis
Meaning: Giver of Life! The Eternal Flame! Mother Goddess, bestow upon me your grace.
You are the mother of the world and are filled with compassion. You are the destroyer of ignorance. 'Sanjharanga' (the composer) sings your name, along with the wise ones, men, and women.