Shravan, the auspicious month as per Hindu almanac, when rains pour in almost all parts of the country largely dependent on agriculture, is an occasion for many artists to sing Raag Malhar.
By Lokendra Singh
Jaipur, Aug.10 : Shravan, the auspicious month as per Hindu almanac, when rains pour in almost all parts of the country largely dependent on agriculture, is an occasion for many artists to sing "Raag Malhar".
Along with the Indian classical songs, many painters depict nature which flowers during the Monsoon month in all its glory.
Over a dozen painters gathered here recently to stage the 'Raag and Rang' (music and colour) programme during a week-long painting workshop (Aug. 2 to 8).
The workshop offered a platform for the painters to depict how Indian classical music can influence the artistic mood and contribute to one's creative expression on the canvas.
The programme was an endeavour to bring fine arts and performing arts together on one platform with both the disciplines synchronising with each other.
Shabana, the organiser of the "Raag and Rang" programme, said: "We wanted to organise a painting workshop which would allow artists to translate their inner most feelings on canvas. This painting exhibition has Malhar (related to rains and cleansing)as its theme."
The ambience was created by the Indian classic Raag Malhar, in Dhrupad style (sublime genre of soulful music), to the accompaniment of Tabla and Santoor by Rajasthani instrumentalists.
Drenched in the spirit Raag Malhar the painters painted imaginative images of clouds, rainbow, parched land and others.
"I love to paint while listening to music. I have made all my paintings while listening to music. I think music is an integral part of life," said Akeshwar Hatwal, an artist.
It was a big draw among music and art lovers of the city and an occasion to experience two universal languages, music and art, at Jaipur's Jawahar Kala Kendra.
"It is so different yet beautiful. Here we are enjoying the traditional music of India . I have been learning a lot by this unique workshop," said Assento, a foreign artist.
Dhrupad is believed to be abbreviated form of Dhruva Paada (Dhruva's hymns). Dhruva was ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu.
Legend has it by singing Raag Malhar one can induce rains. Indian classical singer Tansen is known to have done so singing Raag Malhar.
ANI