Afternoon Ragas (Vol 1)

Afternoon Ragas (Vol 1) is a studio album by Hindustani classical vocalist Mallikarjun Mansur. Released on January 1, 1990, the album belongs to the khayal tradition of Indian classical music and focuses on ragas traditionally performed during the afternoon hours. The recording features Mansur accompanied by instrumentalists, though specific collaborator details remain undocumented in available sources.

The album comprises three tracks, each dedicated to a distinct raga. Mansur opens with Raga Shuddh Sarang, a melodic structure associated with the late morning to early afternoon period. The second composition presents Raga Sughrai, a variant of the Sarang family known for its emotive depth and technical intricacy. The final track explores Raga Gaud Sarang, another afternoon raga characterized by its use of komal re (flattened second) and emphasis on the upper octave. The performances adhere to the slow, meditative vilambit and faster drut sections typical of khayal renditions.

The release format and label for Afternoon Ragas (Vol 1) are not explicitly confirmed in public records, though the album circulated primarily on audio cassette and later in digital reissues. Mansur’s interpretation of these ragas reflects his training in the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, marked by a robust voice and intricate taan patterns. The recording captures his mature style from the late 20th century, a period during which he received widespread recognition for his contributions to Hindustani classical music.

No additional production credits, session details, or alternate editions are documented for this release. The album serves as part of a broader series on afternoon ragas, though subsequent volumes or related compilations lack verified publication data.