‘Mhare Ghar Awo Ji Preetam Pyare,’ is a bhajan composed by the 16th century Hindu mystique and poet Mirabai (1498-1546). The lyrics are devotional, imploring Lord Krishna, the Hindu deity who plays the flute, to appear in the devotee’s humble abode. Through prayers, the devotee wishes to dedicate all worldly possessions, the soul and heart to Him.

Ankalikar improvises the bhajan with soulful extensions of its lyrics, widening the melodic scope and emotional spectrum of its meaning.  

Bhajans by Mirabai are centered around two subjects – the devotee’s exalted feelings about the divine powers of Lord Krishna and the complete submission of one’s soul to Him.

Mirabai was born to a royal family and was married to a prince. She was a great devotee of Lord Krishna whom, she mystically considered her friend, philosopher and consort. She has composed many devotional songs in the native language of Rajasthan, India.

Her compositions praise Lord Krishna passionately and speak of her obeisance to him. Historical research has found very few documents about her – folklores that have floated with cultural evolution through centuries carry many fascinating stories of her miraculous escapes from the mouth of danger whenever her enemies had tried to harm her. Recent research throws light on her contribution towards the ‘Bhakti movement,’ a spiritual revolution that evolved in India around the mediaeval era on the premises of love and religion pivotal to the deities that were worshipped in different regions of India. This movement also gave rise to the different branches of the Hindu religion.

Anubrata Chatterjee (tabla), Chinmay Kolhatkar (harmonium) and Omkar Dalvi (pakhawaj) provide invaluable support to the recital.

Musicians
Arati Ankalikar (khayal)
Anubrata Chatterjee (tabla)
Chinmay Kolhatkar (harmonium)
Omkar Dalvi (pakhawaj)
Priya Prakash & Shobhana Patel (tanpuras)

Mirabai bhajan