Raga Shree - Alaap. Jod And Gat In Jhaptaal

Raga Shree – Alaap, Jod and Gat in Jhaptaal is a 2023 instrumental recording by Indian classical sitarist Niladri Kumar. The performance spans 27 minutes and 35 seconds and centers on Raga Shree, a late-night raga associated with solemnity and devotion in the Hindustani classical tradition. The composition follows the three-part structure of alaap (slow, meditative exploration), jod (accelerated development with rhythmic phrasing), and gat (fixed melodic composition) set to Jhaptaal, a 10-beat rhythmic cycle.

Niladri Kumar performs on the zitar, a modified electric sitar of his own design, blending traditional raga phrasing with contemporary tonal textures. The recording captures a live or studio session, though the exact production context remains undocumented. No accompanying artists or percussionists are credited in available sources, suggesting a solo performance. The label or distributor is not specified in public records.

The track emphasizes the komal re (flattened second) and komal dha (flattened sixth) characteristic of Raga Shree, with Kumar employing meend (glissando) and gamak (ornamentation) techniques. The jhaptaal section introduces a steady pulse, contrasting the free-meter alaap with structured rhythmic interplay. Notable passages include the gradual ascent to the upper sa (octave) in the jod and the repetitive, cadential phrases of the gat.

The release date is inferred from Niladri Kumar’s 2023 performance schedule, but no official album or standalone publication details are confirmed. The recording circulates primarily through digital platforms, often as part of compilation playlists or archival classical music repositories. Further metadata, including recording location, producer, or mastering engineer, is not accessible in public domain sources.