Raga: Darbari Kanada (Alap & Jhala)

The Supreme Genius of Ustad Vilayat Khan is a 1968 Indian classical music album by sitar maestro Vilayat Khan. His Master’s Voice released the recording on a 12-inch vinyl disc. The album features extended performances of ragas in the traditional Hindustani classical style.

Vilayat Khan performs Raga Darbari Kanada on Side A. The track spans an alap and jhala, two foundational sections of a raga performance. The alap introduces the raga’s melodic framework without rhythmic accompaniment. Khan develops the raga’s mood through gradual elaboration of its notes and phrases. The jhala follows, marked by faster tempo and rhythmic interplay using the sitar’s chikari strings. The performance adheres to the dhrupad-influenced gayaki ang, emphasizing vocal-like phrasing and meend (glissando) techniques.

The context does not specify the duration of the track or additional musicians involved. The album remains a documented example of Vilayat Khan’s mid-20th-century interpretations of major ragas.