About Homage To Guru "Mali"
Homage To Guru \"Mali\" is a studio album by Carnatic flautist Dr. N. Ramani, released in CD format under Saregama India Ltd. The recording serves as a tribute to Ramani’s guru, the renowned flute maestro T. R. Mahalingam (commonly known as Mali). The album features six tracks that showcase traditional Carnatic compositions and folk adaptations, emphasizing Ramani’s mastery of the bamboo flute in classical and semi-classical styles.
The album opens with Aparadhamula, set in Raga Rasali and Adi Talam, a composition that highlights intricate melodic phrasing. The second track, Sri Naradha, employs Raga Kanada in Rupakam Talam, demonstrating Ramani’s control over gamakas (ornamental oscillations) and rhythmic precision. Mari Vere follows in Raga Latangi with a Jhampa Talam structure, blending technical virtuosity with lyrical expression.
Evari Mata adopts Raga Kambhoji in Adi Talam, a staple raga in Carnatic music known for its emotive depth. The album includes an untitled folk song in Tisra Nadai, adapting regional melodic traditions to the flute. The closing track, Bhaja Bhaja Manasa, is rendered in Raga Sindhubhairavi and Adi Talam, a devotional piece often associated with spiritual contemplation.
The release date of the album remains undocumented in widely accessible sources, though its production aligns with Ramani’s active period in the late 20th century. Saregama India Ltd. distributed the CD as part of its classical music catalog, preserving Ramani’s interpretations of compositions linked to his guru’s legacy. The album exemplifies the Mysore Bani style of flute-playing, characterized by a balanced blend of technical rigor and melodic fluidity.