Mishra Bhatiyali

Musicians:
- Sarwar Hussain Khan (sarangi)
- Debjit Patitundi (tabla)

Let's journey back in time to Darbar Festival 2023 when we were graced by the exceptional talent of Sarwar Hussain Khan.

Khan was born into an illustrious sarangi family. The son of Ustad Anwar Hussain and grandson of stalwart, Ustad Abdul Latif Khan Sahab, Khan has developed a style which gives the audience deeply stirring and richly coloured sounds. This is his UK debut performance where he will present his unique style of playing tappa, one of the most difficult forms of singing that is reproduced by his sarangi. Tappa was developed by Rajasthani folk musicians, who while riding on camels created an undulating sound as their bodies moved up and down, thereby creating this unique style. Khan is accompanied by the vibrant young tabla player, Patitundi, student of the late Pandit Subhankar Banerjee.  

Mishra Bhatiyali is a blend of two distinct musical traditions in Indian classical music—Bhatiyali and Mishra.

Bhatiyali: A traditional raga associated with the folk music of Bengal, it is usually sung in a slow, meditative, and expressive manner, evoking emotions related to the life of fishermen, the river, and longing. It’s often performed at night and connects deeply with themes of separation and love.

Mishra: This term refers to the blending of different ragas or musical styles. When applied to Bhatiyali, it means a fusion or adaptation of the raga with elements from other ragas, typically resulting in a more complex and nuanced performance.

Mishra Bhatiyali combines the devotional and soulful elements of Bhatiyali with the technical complexity and improvisational freedom of other ragas, creating a unique and powerful musical experience. It’s often marked by fluid, flowing melodies and rhythmic complexity, and may be performed with instruments like the sitar, sarod, or the tabla, alongside the vocal performance.

Recorded at Darbar Festival 2023, on 27th October at the Barbican Centre, London.