It is accidently that I came across Darbari Kanada raga as I was going through the comment section of one of my previous blog posts that was on Amritavarshini raga. I found this raga very interesting and decided to find out more about this amazing raga. Let me get straight to the origin of Darbari Kanada, interesting tales related to it and some of the popular film songs composed in this raga.
Origin of Darbari Kanada
Just as its name hints, "Darbari" signifies a symphony fit for courts – a harmonious accompaniment to grand gatherings, where kings, queens, and dignitaries would be swaying to its enchanting melodies. This raga emerged from the illustrious Kanada family of ragas, comprising a beautiful combination of both natural and flat notes. This soulful raga is soothing to the ears, as it creates melody effortlessly, with perfection.
The raga originated in the Northern part of India, which also means that the raga is based on Hindustani classical music. The raga’s evolution and development were greatly influenced by the cultural and traditional fabric of the region. The raga has also been adapted to an extent in Carnatic music in Southern India.
Fascinating Stories Echoing Through The Raga
It’s story time! Let’s hear some of the interesting tales related to Darbari Kanada raga:
The Emperor's Challenge:
Legend has it that during the Mughal era, Emperor Akbar once issued a musical challenge to his court musicians. He requested them to create a raga that could evoke the complex emotions of majesty, grandeur, and introspection all at once. The musicians took up the challenge and emerged with the Darbari Kanada raga. Its somber and majestic tones were said to have impressed the emperor, who was moved by the raga's ability to capture the essence of his court. Thus, Darbari Kanada earned its name, derived from "darbar," meaning royal court. This tale underscores the raga's connection to regal settings and its ability to evoke powerful emotions.
Tansen's Dilemma:
In another legend, the great Mughal musician Tansen found himself in a musical confusion. Tansen, known for his exceptional mastery over ragas, was perplexed by the complexity of a particular raga. He sought guidance from his mentor, Swami Haridas, who advised him to meditate and seek divine intervention. As Tansen meditated by the Yamuna River, he had a vision of Lord Krishna playing a melody on his flute. Inspired by this divine encounter, Tansen composed the Darbari Kanada raga, capturing the essence of the divine music he had heard. This tale showcases the raga's spiritual connection and its ability to transcend human boundaries.
The Melancholic Monk:
A more recent story involves the renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Amir Khan. It is said that he was so deeply moved by the melancholic beauty of Darbari Kanada that he referred to it as the "raga of monks weeping." This description perfectly captures the raga's ability to convey deep emotions and evoke a sense of introspection and sorrow.
The Cursed Raga:
According to a lesser-known legend, Darbari Kanada was believed to be a cursed raga, carrying a haunting quality that could evoke sorrow and even tragedy. It was said that anyone who attempted to play this raga at night risked invoking malevolent spirits and inviting misfortune. Musicians were advised to avoid playing Darbari Kanada after sunset, attributing its melancholic allure to supernatural forces. This mystique surrounding the raga added to its enigmatic reputation and the air of caution that surrounded its performance.
The Healing Raga:
In a heartwarming tale, Darbari Kanada's soothing melodies were said to have healing properties. It is said that during times of illness or distress, musicians would play the raga to provide comfort and solace to those in need. The emotional depth of Darbari Kanada was believed to have the power to alleviate pain and restore a sense of calm and tranquility. This tale highlights the therapeutic potential of music and the belief in its ability to uplift and heal.
The Musical Rivalry:
There's a famous rivalry tale involving Darbari Kanada and another renowned raga, Malkauns. It is said that the two ragas were once personified as two powerful titans engaged in a musical showdown. Each raga showcased its unique strengths and emotional palette, attempting to outdo the other. The encounter between Darbari Kanada and Malkauns is said to have resulted in a mesmerizing fusion of their respective qualities, creating a harmonious blend that left listeners spellbound. This tale emphasizes the distinctiveness of Darbari Kanada's character and its ability to engage in a musical dialogue with other ragas.
The Monsoon Raga:
In certain traditions, Darbari Kanada is associated with the monsoon season. Its melancholic and introspective nature is believed to mirror the moods and emotions evoked by the rains. The raga is thought to reflect the sound of raindrops falling gently, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. This association adds a natural and elemental dimension to the raga, connecting it to the rhythms of the earth.
Film Music Adaptation of Darbari Kanada
Here are some of the Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam film songs that have been composed based on Darbari Kanada raga:
Hindi Film Songs on Darbari Kanada
"Mera Saaya Saath Hoga" from "Mera Saaya"
"Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon" by Lata Mangeshkar
"Badi Sooni Sooni Hai" from "Mili"
"Ja Re Ja O Harjaee" from "Kalicharan"
"Milo Na Tum Toh" from "Heer Ranjha"
"Chala Jata Hoon" from "Mere Jeevan Saathi"
"Aaja Re O Mere Dilbar Aaja" from "Noorie"
"Meri Bheegi Bheegi Si" from "Anamika"
"Chhoti Si Kahani Se" from "Ijaazat"
"Dil Aisa Kisi Ne Mera Toda" from "Amanush"
Tamil Film Songs on Darbari Kanada
"Thamizha Thamizha" from "Roja"
"Kalyana Maalai" from "Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal"
"Kadhal Rojave" from "Roja"
"Kaattukuyilu" from "Thalapathi"
"En Veettu Thottathil" from "Gentleman"
"Mangalyam Thanthunanena" from "Alaipayuthey"
"Malare Mounama" from "Karna"
"Kadhal Sadugudu" from "Alaipayuthey"
"Enna Vilai Azhage" from "Kadhalar Dhinam"
"Uyire Uyire" from "Bombay"
Malayalam Film Songs on Darbari Kanada
“Aalaapanam” from “Ente Sooryaputhrikku”
“Thaamara Noolinaal” from “Mullavalliyum Thenmaavum”
“Manassin Manichimizhil” from “Arayannangalude Veedu”
“Junile Nilamazhayil” from “Nammal Thammil”
“Shilayil Ninnum Unaruu Nee” from “Chronic Bachelor”
“Azhake Nin” from “Amaram”
“Thoomanjin Nenchilothungi” from “Samooham”
“Ponnil Kulichu Ninnu” from “Sallapam”
“Shivadam Shivanaamam” from “Mazhavillu”
“Aathmaavin Pushtakathaalil” from “Mazhayuthum Munpe”
I hope you enjoyed the read. Do listen to these songs and let me know if you liked them as well! 🙂