About The Genius of Girija Devi
The Genius of Girija Devi is a compilation album by Indian classical vocalist Girija Devi. Saregama released the album on CD in 2011 as part of its archival series showcasing her contributions to the Banaras gharana tradition.
Girija Devi performed all 22 tracks on the album. The selection spans thumri, tappa and khyal compositions in ragas such as Khamaj, Mishra Tilak Kamod, Mishra Tilang, Bhairavi, Desi Todi, Yaman, Abhogi Kanada and Kafi. Notable recordings include the thumri Khel Rahe Rang Hori, the devotional Sovat Nindiya Jagaye and the seasonal Barsan Lagi Badariya. The album also features the khyal-based Diwana Kiye Sham and a tappa in Raga Kafi.
The release captures live and studio performances from Devi’s career, though exact recording dates for individual tracks remain undocumented in the liner notes. Saregama sourced the material from its vault of Hindustani classical archives. The compilation emphasizes Devi’s mastery of semi-classical forms alongside her renditions of traditional ragas.
No additional musicians or accompanying artists are credited in the available documentation. The album cover and booklet include photographs of Devi in performance, alongside brief notes on her artistic lineage. The 2011 release coincided with renewed interest in her work following her receipt of the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, though the compilation itself predates that honor.