About Raga - Darbari Kanada Raga - Kaushi - Dhani
Raga – Darbari Kanada / Raga – Kaushi-Dhani is a 1961 studio album by Hindustani classical vocalist Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. The release captures two extended raga performances in the khyal style, a hallmark of the Patiala gharana to which Khan belonged. His Master’s Voice issued the recording as a 12\" vinyl LP under catalog number N 7EPE 8005 (India pressing).
The album features two tracks. Khan performs Raga Darbari Kanada in the first half, a grave and expansive raga traditionally associated with late-night renditions. The composition unfolds in vilambit ektaal (slow tempo, 12-beat cycle) before transitioning to a drut teentaal (fast 16-beat cycle) section. The second track presents Raga Kaushi-Dhani, a rare and intricate raga blending elements of Kaushi and Dhani scales. Khan’s interpretation emphasizes gamak-laden phrasing and layered taans, accompanied by tanpura and tabla.
The recording session occurred in 1961, though the exact studio location remains undocumented. His Master’s Voice produced the album as part of its classical music series, targeting audiences in North India and among diaspora communities. The vinyl release included liner notes in Hindi and English, crediting Khan’s accompanists without naming them individually. Reissues or digital remasters of this album have not been officially confirmed.
Bade Ghulam Ali Khan (1902–1968) was a preeminent exponent of the Patiala-kasur gharana, known for his command over taankari (fast melodic improvisation) and emotional depth in raga exposition. This album exemplifies his mature style, recorded during the final decade of his career. The 1961 release date aligns with his period of widespread acclaim, following his receipt of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1962.
The original vinyl pressing carried no alternate mixes or bonus material. Track durations exceed 20 minutes each, adhering to the conventions of full-length raga presentations on LP formats of the era. The album cover art, if included, followed His Master’s Voice’s standard design template for classical releases, though visual documentation is scarce.