Raga Maru Bihag is a late-night Hindustani classical raga that combines elements of Ragas Maru and Bihag. It uses both natural and sharp madhyam (ma and Ma), with pancham (Pa) as its vadi swar. The raga creates a unique blend of Maru’s gravity and Bihag’s romance, making it suitable for both classical and semi-classical forms.
Its key melodic features include prominent phrases like Ni Sa Ga and Pa Dha Ni, with careful treatment of both madhyams. The lower tetrachord emphasizes Maru’s serious qualities, while the upper tetrachord incorporates Bihag’s romantic elements. Traditional compositions include “Kaun Gat Bhai” (vilambit) and “More Manwa” (madhya laya).
The raga’s performance typically begins with a slow alaap, gradually developing the interplay between both parent ragas’ characteristics. Its emotional essence combines shringara (romance) with bhakti (devotion), requiring skilled handling of the transitions between its dual nature.
The development follows a structured progression from lower to higher octaves, carefully balancing the characteristics of both parent ragas while maintaining its distinct identity through the thoughtful use of both madhyams.