Raga Malkauns - Teental

Kesarbai Kerkar performed Raga Malkauns in Teental as the opening track of the 20th Century Baithak Series. The recording spans 30 minutes and 31 seconds and appears on a CD released by Sangeet Kendra. The release date remains undocumented in available sources, but the series compiles archival performances from the 20th century.

Kerkar rendered the composition in the dhrupad-ang khayal style, characteristic of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana. The track exemplifies her command of raga vistar and bol-banao improvisation, with extended alaap and jod-alaap sections preceding the rhythmic exposition in Teental (16-beat cycle). Accompaniment details, including tabla or tanpura artists, are not specified in the release metadata.

The 20th Century Baithak Series curates live and studio recordings by eminent Hindustani classical vocalists. Sangeet Kendra, the producing label, specializes in preserving and disseminating traditional Indian music through physical media. This particular track highlights Kerkar’s repertoire, which often featured rare and complex ragas. No alternate takes or additional versions of this performance are confirmed in the series.

Kesarbai Kerkar (1892–1977) received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1953 and remains a foundational figure in the Jaipur-Atrauli tradition. Her interpretations of Malkauns are noted for their depth of gamak (ornamentation) and adherence to the raga’s shuddha madhyam (pure fourth) scale. The CD format of this release ensures compatibility with modern playback systems while retaining the acoustic qualities of the original recording.