Raga Bhairav: Alap And Dhrupad, Shiva Adi Mada Anta : Jhamptal

Raga Bhairav: Alap And Dhrupad, Shiva Adi Mada Anta : Jhamptal is a Dhrupad performance recorded by Ustad Nasir Aminuddin Dagar, a prominent exponent of the Dagar vani (style) within the Dhrupad tradition of Hindustani classical music. The track appears as side B, track 1 (B1) on the 12\" vinyl album Ustad Nasir Aminuddin Dagar, released in 1983 under the His Master’s Voice label.

The composition centers on Raga Bhairav, a morning raga associated with devotion and introspection in the Indian classical repertoire. The performance follows the traditional Dhrupad structure, beginning with an alap that systematically explores the raga’s melodic contours without rhythmic accompaniment. The latter section introduces the dhrupad composition set to Jhamptal, a 10-beat rhythmic cycle. The text Shiva Adi Mada Anta references a devotional lyric dedicated to Lord Shiva, a common thematic element in Dhrupad repertoire.

Nasir Aminuddin Dagar’s rendition exemplifies the Dagarbani approach, characterized by sustained note development, microtonal inflections, and a meditative pacing. The recording captures the artist’s vocal technique, including the use of gamak (ornamentation) and precise intonation. Instrumental accompaniment, if present, is not detailed in available sources. The album serves as a documented example of Dhrupad performance practice from the late 20th century, reflecting the genre’s emphasis on textual clarity and raga elaboration.

The 1983 release on His Master’s Voice contributed to the preservation of Dhrupad at a time when the genre faced declining mainstream visibility. No additional production credits, session details, or alternate versions of this specific track are verified in public records. The vinyl format suggests the recording targeted audiophiles and classical music connoisseurs during its initial distribution.