Bhairavi from Puja by Mustafa Bhagat
Bhairavi • Also played in the Misra (mixed) style, this rendition of Bhairavi was given to me by Vidushi Mita Nag. A beautiful simple composition in 6 beats that I have since heard everywhere - so it must be a traditional approach. Shuddha Re (2nd) is featured prominently in this piece as is a hint of Gujuri Todi - the first piece on this record. In a Misra style you are free to move in and out of other ragas, or gats to take the listener on an unexpected momentary journey, a welcome detour.
Bhairavi is typically a sunrise raga , but it is also common to play Bhairavi as the final piece of a concert - no matter the actual time. During the many all-night Indian music programs I have seen it is alway a great feeling to hear the beginning of Bhairavi. You made it. The deep dark of night is giving way to a hopeful twilight. Grab a fresh cup of chai and let the final moment of music usher into the morning light. Those who stayed up, earned themselves a real treat in this welcome call to the sun.
Raga: Bhairavi Misra
Tala: Ektaal in Dadra Feel (12/6 Beats)
Time: Sunrise
Mustafa Bhagat is an Emmy award winning producer, editor and cinematographer. He runs his production company, Flicker Filmworks, with his partner Laura da Ney. When not making films he can be found strumming sweet melodies on his sitar.
He also performs with David Freeman as The Biryani Boys, and as Arranged Marriage NP with Jerry Adler.
Puja is an offering to his guruji, Pandit Manilal Nag.