BIOGRAPHY

MUKESH

 

Mukesh, whose full name is Mukesh Chand Mathur, was an iconic Indian playback singer in the Hindi film industry. He was born on July 22, 1923, in Delhi, India, and passed away on August 27, 1976, in Detroit, Michigan, United States. Mukesh is regarded as one of the greatest playback singers in the history of Indian cinema and his soulful voice continues to captivate audiences even today.

Mukesh started his career as a playback singer in the 1940s, and his breakthrough came in 1945 with the film "Pehli Nazar." He gained recognition for his unique voice and ability to convey emotions through his songs. One of his defining characteristics was his ability to emote melancholy and sorrow, which made him a perfect choice for songs expressing heartbreak and longing.

Over the course of his career, Mukesh collaborated with various music directors, including Naushad, Shankar-Jaikishan, and Madan Mohan, among others. His association with music director duo Shankar-Jaikishan was particularly fruitful, resulting in several memorable songs that have stood the test of time.

Some of Mukesh's most famous songs include "Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein" from the film "Kabhi Kabhie," "Dost Dost Na Raha" from the film "Sangam," "Jeena Yahan Marna Yahan" from the film "Mera Naam Joker," and "Chandan Sa Badan" from the film "Saraswatichandra." His voice resonated with the emotions of the characters on screen and made him a favorite among actors and filmmakers alike.

Mukesh received several accolades for his contributions to Indian music, including four Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer. He was also honored with the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for the song "Kai Baar Yuhi Dekha Hai" from the film "Rajnigandha." In addition to Hindi songs, Mukesh also sang in other Indian languages such as Gujarati and Punjabi.

Tragically, Mukesh passed away at the age of 53 while on a concert tour in the United States. His untimely demise left a void in the Indian music industry, but his rich legacy lives on. His songs continue to be cherished by music lovers, and his soulful voice remains an inspiration for generations of singers that followed.

Mukesh's contribution to Indian cinema and music is unparalleled, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest playback singers of all time.

BIOGRAPHY

SURAIYA

Suraiya (1929-2004) was an Indian actress and playback singer who gained immense popularity during the Golden Era of Indian cinema. She was born as Suraiya Jamaal Sheikh on June 15, 1929, in Gujranwala, British India (now in Pakistan). Suraiya was one of the leading actresses of her time and was often referred to as the "Malika-e-Husn" (Queen of Beauty).

Suraiya belonged to a talented family. Her father, Aziz Jamaal Sheikh, was a well-known poet, while her mother, Mumtaz Begum, was a singer. Her family later moved to Mumbai (then Bombay) when she was very young. Suraiya's talent was discovered at a young age when she participated in a children's music competition and won first prize.

In 1941, at the age of 12, Suraiya made her film debut with the movie "Taj Mahal." She gained popularity for her beautiful voice and natural acting skills. Suraiya was known for her versatility as an actress, appearing in a variety of roles, from romantic heroines to strong-willed characters. Some of her notable films include "Badi Behen" (1949), "Mirza Ghalib" (1954), and "Dil-e-Nadan" (1953), among others.

Apart from her acting career, Suraiya was also an accomplished playback singer. She lent her melodious voice to numerous hit songs in Hindi films. Some of her popular songs include "Woh Paas Rahe Ya Door Rahe" from the film "Shabnam" (1949) and "Tere Nainon Ne Chori Kiya" from the film "Pyaar Ki Jeet" (1948).

Suraiya's on-screen chemistry with her frequent co-star, Dev Anand, was highly praised, and the duo appeared together in several successful films. However, their rumored real-life romance never materialized into marriage.

In the late 1950s, Suraiya faced personal setbacks, including the death of her mother and the decline of her career. She gradually reduced her film appearances and focused on her personal life. Suraiya remained unmarried and dedicated her later years to philanthropic work and religious activities.

Suraiya passed away on January 31, 2004, at the age of 75, after a prolonged illness. She left behind a rich legacy in Indian cinema and is remembered as one of the iconic actresses and playback singers of her time. Her contributions to the film industry continue to be cherished by fans and enthusiasts of classic Hindi cinema.

BIOGRAPHY

 NOOR   JAHAN

Noor Jahan, also known as Malika-e-Tarannum (Queen of Melody), was a renowned Pakistani singer and actress. She was born on September 21, 1926, in Kasur, Punjab, British India (now in Pakistan), and passed away on December 23, 2000, in Karachi, Pakistan. Noor Jahan is considered one of the greatest and most influential singers in the history of South Asian music.

Noor Jahan began her career as a child artist in the 1930s under the name Baby Noor Jahan. She made her debut as a playback singer in the film "Gul Bakavli" in 1939 and soon gained popularity with her soulful voice and versatility. Throughout her career, she sang in various languages, including Urdu, Punjabi, and Hindi, and recorded over 10,000 songs.

In addition to her singing career, Noor Jahan also ventured into acting and appeared in several films. She became one of the leading actresses of the Pakistani film industry, often starring opposite her husband, Syed Shaukat Hussain Rizvi, who was a film director and producer.

Noor Jahan's contribution to music and cinema was immense. She revolutionized film music in South Asia by introducing new styles and genres. Her melodious voice, combined with her ability to convey emotions, made her a favorite among audiences. Some of her popular songs include "Awaz De Kahan Hai," "Chandni Raaten," "Mujhse Pehli Si Mohabbat," and "Jab Tera Naam Liya."

During her career, Noor Jahan received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Nigar Award for Best Female Playback Singer multiple times. She was also honored with the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest civilian awards, for her contributions to music.

Noor Jahan's career spanned several decades, and she continued to mesmerize audiences with her voice until her last days. Even today, her songs are considered classics and are cherished by music lovers across the globe. She remains an iconic figure in the world of music and is remembered as a legendary artist who left an indelible mark on Pakistani and South Asian music and cinema.

BIOGRAPHY

KUNDANLAL SEHGAL

Kundanlal Sehgal, popularly known as Kundan Lal Saigal or simply K.L. Saigal, was a renowned Indian playback singer and actor. Born on April 11, 1904, in Jammu, India, Saigal is considered one of the greatest icons of Indian cinema and music.

Saigal's interest in music developed at an early age, and he received training in classical music from Ustad Mohammed Ibrahim Khan of the Kirana Gharana. He moved to Kolkata (then Calcutta) in the 1920s and began his career as a singer in the city's film industry. His breakthrough came in 1932 when he was offered the lead role in the film "Mohabbat Ke Aansoo" and also provided the film's soundtrack, marking the beginning of his success as an actor-singer.

K.L. Saigal's unique and soulful voice, combined with his ability to convey emotions through his singing, made him immensely popular. He had a distinctive style that blended classical and folk music with a touch of ghazals. Some of his most memorable songs include "Jab Dil Hi Toot Gaya," "Babul Mora Naihar Chhooto Jaye," and "So Ja Rajkumari So Ja."

Saigal's success extended beyond the Bengali film industry, and he went on to work in Hindi and Punjabi films as well. He acted in several notable films such as "Devdas" (1935), "Dushman" (1939), and "Tansen" (1943). His performances were highly acclaimed, and he became a household name in India during the 1930s and 1940s.

Unfortunately, Saigal's life was cut short due to illness. He struggled with alcoholism, which affected his health, and he passed away on January 18, 1947, at the age of 42. Despite his relatively short career, K.L. Saigal left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry and music scene.

K.L. Saigal's influence and legacy continue to resonate even today. His songs are still popular and widely appreciated for their timeless beauty and emotional depth. He is often remembered as the first superstar of Indian cinema and a pioneer who laid the foundation for the playback singing tradition in the industry. His remarkable contributions to music and acting have left an enduring impact on generations of artists and music lovers in India and beyond.

NOTATIONS OF SUFI SANGEET

Introduction:

Sufi music is a genre that transcends boundaries and touches the depths of the human soul. Its enchanting melodies and poetic lyrics have captivated listeners for centuries, spreading a message of love, unity, and spirituality. One of the essential aspects of Sufi music is its unique system of notations, which allows musicians to interpret and perform these mystical compositions. In this article, we delve into the notations of Sufi sangeet, uncovering their significance and the intricate artistry they embody.

The Essence of Sufi Sangeet:

Sufi music is deeply rooted in the mystical traditions of Sufism, a spiritual path that emphasizes the pursuit of divine love and union with the Supreme. Sufi sangeet serves as a means to connect with the divine, to evoke spiritual ecstasy, and to transport both the performer and the audience to a higher plane of existence. At its core, Sufi music is a medium through which profound emotions are expressed, and the notations play a crucial role in conveying these sentiments.

The Traditional Notation System:

The notations used in Sufi sangeet are primarily based on the classical music traditions of the Indian subcontinent, with influences from Persian and Arabic musical systems. The traditional notation system used in Sufi music is known as "Swarlipi" or "Sargam," which is a set of symbols representing the seven basic musical notes, namely Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, and Ni. These notes are the building blocks for the melodic structure of Sufi compositions.

Symbolism and Expression:

In Sufi sangeet, the notations go beyond their technical function of representing musical notes. They also carry deep symbolic meaning and are considered a form of spiritual expression. Each note is associated with a specific emotion or spiritual state, allowing the performer to imbue the composition with the intended mood. For example, the note "Ma" is often associated with longing and melancholy, while "Pa" signifies peace and tranquility.

Ornamentations and Improvisations:

Sufi sangeet embraces ornamentations and improvisations, allowing musicians to infuse their individual artistic expressions into the performance. The notations provide a framework within which musicians can explore intricate melodic patterns, rhythmic variations, and embellishments known as "taans" and "murkis." These improvisational elements contribute to the dynamic and fluid nature of Sufi music, creating an enchanting experience for both the performer and the listener.

The Role of Qawwals:

Qawwali, a prominent form of Sufi music, features a group of musicians known as qawwals. The qawwals play a vital role in preserving and propagating the Sufi musical tradition. They possess a deep understanding of the notations and utilize their expertise to create captivating renditions. Qawwals often engage in powerful vocal improvisations, known as "sargam taans," where they skillfully traverse the melodic framework, showcasing their mastery over the notations.

Preserving the Sufi Musical Tradition:

In an era of digital advancements, preserving the notations of Sufi sangeet is of utmost importance to ensure the longevity of this rich musical tradition. Dedicated efforts are being made by scholars, musicians, and institutions to document and transcribe these notations accurately. This documentation enables future generations to learn, study, and perform Sufi music, thus safeguarding the invaluable heritage of this mystical art form.

Conclusion:

The notations of Sufi sangeet form the backbone of this mystical musical tradition, allowing performers to express profound emotions, convey spiritual states, and engage in creative improvisations. The traditional notation system, deeply rooted in the classical music traditions of the Indian subcontinent, serves as a guide for musicians, while also providing a canvas for artistic interpretations. Through diligent preservation and dissemination, these notations will continue to inspire and captivate audiences, keeping the spirit of Sufi sangeet alive for generations to come.

NOTATIONS OF RABINDRA SANGEET

Introduction:

Rabindra Sangeet, the soul-stirring music of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, has enthralled audiences for decades. This musical genre, deeply rooted in Indian classical and folk traditions, carries the essence of Bengali culture and resonates with emotions that transcend boundaries. One crucial aspect of Rabindra Sangeet that enables its preservation and propagation is its unique notation system. In this article, we delve into the notations of Rabindra Sangeet and shed light on their significance in understanding and interpreting this enchanting musical tradition.

Understanding Rabindra Sangeet Notations:

Rabindra Sangeet notations serve as a guide for musicians to accurately reproduce the melodies composed by Tagore. Unlike Western classical music, Rabindra Sangeet follows a distinctive notation system known as "swaralipi." Swaralipi is a combination of two words, "swara" meaning musical note and "lipi" meaning script or notation.

The swaralipi notation consists of several key components, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the music:

Swara:

1. In Rabindra Sangeet, the seven basic musical notes (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni) are represented using specific symbols. Sa is represented by a dot (.), Re by a small vertical line (|), Ga by a small slanting line (/), Ma by an open circle (o), Pa by a horizontal line (-), Dha by a small 'X,' and Ni by a plus sign (+). These symbols are written above the lyrics of the song.

2. 
   

3. Matra:

4. 
   

5. Matra refers to the duration or rhythm of the notes. It is represented by different numerical values (1, 2, 3, etc.) placed above the swaras. The matra provides a rhythmic structure to the composition, guiding the singers in maintaining the proper tempo and timing.

6. 
   

7. Taal:

8. 
   

9. Taal signifies the rhythmic cycle of a song. Rabindra Sangeet commonly uses taals such as Dadra, Kaharwa, Jhaptal, and Teental. Each taal has a distinct arrangement of beats, which is indicated at the beginning of the notation.

10. 
    

11. Bol:

12. 
    

13. Bol refers to the textual representation of beats or rhythmic patterns, complementing the swara notation. It aids in accurately conveying the rhythmic intricacies of Rabindra Sangeet.

Significance of Rabindra Sangeet Notations:

The notations of Rabindra Sangeet play a pivotal role in preserving the authenticity and integrity of Tagore's compositions. They act as a bridge between generations, allowing musicians to learn and perform the songs exactly as intended by the poet himself.

Furthermore, these notations serve as a valuable resource for research, analysis, and interpretation of Rabindra Sangeet. Scholars and music enthusiasts can delve into the intricacies of the music, understanding the nuances of melody, rhythm, and lyrical expression through these notations. They provide a common language for musicians to communicate and collaborate, transcending regional and linguistic barriers.

Learning Rabindra Sangeet Notations: Learning Rabindra Sangeet notations requires dedication, practice, and guidance. Aspiring musicians often start with the basics of swara and matra, gradually progressing to more complex compositions. Numerous music schools, Gurukuls, and online platforms offer specialized courses and resources to help enthusiasts delve into the rich heritage of Rabindra Sangeet.

Conclusion:

The notations of Rabindra Sangeet hold immense significance in preserving and propagating the rich musical heritage of Tagore. Through the swaralipi system, musicians can interpret and perform his compositions with utmost fidelity. These notations serve as a bridge between generations, allowing the timeless melodies to be enjoyed and appreciated by audiences across the globe. By embracing and learning the notations of Rabindra Sangeet, we ensure that this magical musical tradition remains alive, enchanting hearts for generations to come.