Music is the universal language of expression. When one thinks of music, the most popular genre which creates instant impact is our beloved Bollywood. Hindi films have a very special place for music in its packaging. We have historical evidences proving that our culture take refuge of lyrical music to express more effectively than monologues.
One fact which commoner misses and doesn’t pay attention to, is that each song which has its distinct mood is based on a Raga. one thinks that Bollywood music is easy because it is not classical, but it won’t be an exaggeration to say that it’s a Raga and its swara step up which creates that emotion in us. Each raga is scientifically designed and assigned a suggested time zone, not because of the creator’s fancy but purely because of the impact it has on one’s body, mind and soul.
Kahin Deep Jale, Mere Naina Saawan Bhado, Dil Ke Jharoke Me… Apart from the common fact that all the songs mentioned above leave a melancholic heaviness in one’s heart, all the songs are based on Raga Shivranjani. The basic structure of this raga is deep and sung in night, so whenever a movie has a situation for depicting heavy emotions, Shivranjani comes to its rescue.
Similarly if you consider raga Bhimpalasi, you will find a lot of songs with passion and sense of longing based on this raga. Khilte hain gul yahan, naino me badra chhaye or kuch dil ne kaha all these songs are based on raga Bhimpalas. Interestingly music maestro AR Rahman has composed a lot of his melodies in this raga. Kismat se tum humko mile ho, Radha kaise na jale, Ae Ajnabi or Kehta Hai Mera Yeh Dil, Rehman has used this raga time and again with utmost finesse. By the way, don’t be surprised if you end up humming Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You while thinking of Bhimpalasi because that is based on the same raga.
Talking of Bollywood music and ignoring Raga Yaman is unjust. Raga Yaman has attracted music directors across eras purely for its simplicity and easy notations. Starting from Abhi Na Jao Chhor Kar, Saranga Teri Yaad Me, Jab Deep Jale Aaana to Aayat from Bajirao Mastani and Moh Moh ke dhage, Raga Yaman has found a special place in romance in Bollywood music.
The ocean of classical music is too deep to be summarised in one page. More you dig deep more you realise how less you know. So stay classically musical and enjoy!
