Samarpan (Offering Of The Self) - Raga Yaman

Samarpan (Offering Of The Self) – Raga Yaman is a 1970s Hindustani classical vocal performance by Kishori Amonkar, a prominent exponent of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana. The recording spans 31 minutes and 42 seconds and centers on Raga Yaman, a foundational evening raga in the Kalyan thaat. Amonkar’s interpretation emphasizes the raga’s expansive alaap, intricate taan patterns, and emotive bol-banao (lyrical improvisation) techniques.

Amonkar accompanies herself with tanpura drone support, while an unidentified tabla player provides rhythmic backing. The performance adheres to the traditional khayal format, progressing from a slow, meditative vilambit section to a faster drut composition. The recording captures Amonkar’s signature vocal agility, microtonal inflections, and dynamic control, hallmarks of her stylistic approach to the Jaipur-Atrauli tradition.

The album’s release details remain partially undocumented. No confirmed label, catalog number, or exact release date exists in widely accessible sources, though the recording circulates among classical music archives and private collections. The title Samarpan (translating to \"surrender\" or \"offering\") reflects the devotional and introspective quality of the performance.

Notable aspects include Amonkar’s exploration of komal ni (flattened seventh) in the raga’s descent, a characteristic feature of her Yaman renditions. The performance omits instrumental accompaniment beyond the tanpura and tabla, placing sole focus on vocal expression. The recording serves as a representative example of Amonkar’s mid-career work, during which she refined her balance between traditional repertoire and personal innovation.

No commercial reissues or digital remasters of this specific performance are verified as of 2024. The track exists primarily in analog formats among connoisseurs, with occasional appearances in curated anthologies of Amonkar’s live and studio recordings. The absence of liner notes or session documentation limits further contextual details about the recording’s origin or production circumstances.