Raga Bhairav Bahar stands out as an interesting and unique raga in Hindustani classical music. It arises from the confluence of two distinct ragas, Bhairav and Bahar, each possessing its own character and emotional expression.
Structure and Characteristics
Bhairav Bahar is classified as a Sampurna-Sampurna (jaati) raga, implying it utilizes all seven notes (swaras) in both its ascending (aroha) and descending (avaroha) scales. Traditionally, this raga is performed during the morning hours, specifically between 6 AM and 9 AM. However, due to its inherent elements from Bahar, a raga associated with spring and often performed in the afternoon, Bhairav Bahar exhibits some flexibility in performance time.
Musical Nuances
The ascending scale (arohana) of Bhairav Bahar features notes S r G m P d N S’, where ‘r’ and ‘d’ represent the komal Re and Dha. The descending scale (avarohana) follows the sequence S’ N d P m G r S. Dha acts as the vadi, the most emphasized note, while Re takes the role of the samvadi, the second most important note.
Mood and Expression
Bhairav Bahar evokes a captivating blend of emotions. The seriousness and meditative qualities of Bhairav intertwine with the joyous, spring-like mood inherent in Bahar. This unique fusion results in a raga that can be both solemn and celebratory.
Additional Notes
The intriguing aspect of Bhairav Bahar lies in the interplay between the gravity of Bhairav and the lightness of Bahar, making it suitable for expressing a wide range of emotions. Performing musicians require a meticulous balance between the elements of both parent ragas, highlighting the characteristic notes (pakad) and key phrases to preserve the raga’s identity.
Appreciation and Examples
While not as frequently performed as other ragas, Bhairav Bahar has been employed by skilled musicians to showcase their versatility and mastery over the intricate interplay of different ragas. Delving into recordings by maestros like Ustad Vilayat Khan or Pandit Ravi Shankar offers a deeper understanding and appreciation for this captivating raga.
A Raga of Rich Tapestry
Raga Bhairav Bahar stands as a rich and multifaceted raga, beautifully merging the depth of Bhairav with the freshness of Bahar, ultimately creating a captivating musical experience.