The tradition of Indian classical music has always run parallel with spirituality. This is evident in how ragas are named, often after forms of Goddess Durga. The characteristics and singing style of these ragas are reminiscent of how the goddess is described in ancient texts. One such raga in classical tradition is Raga Durga. Named after Goddess Durga, this raga embodies her divine qualities through melody.
In the Brahmavaivarta Purana, there's a tale where Lord Shiva encounters obstacles while on his way to destroy Tripura. The conditions for Tripura's annihilation were stringent, requiring a rare celestial alignment occurring once in a thousand years, lasting only a few moments. To overcome these hurdles and triumph over Tripurasura, Lord Shiva praised Goddess Tripura Sundari.
The goddess Tripura Sundari is none other than a grand form of Goddess Durga. At that time, Lord Shiva composed the Durga Stotra to extol her virtues, referring to the goddess as 'Brahmasvarupa' in it.
Durga Stotra by Shiva
Protect, protect O Goddess Devi Durga, Destroyer of Misfortune, I am devoted and pray to you for grace.
Vishnu's glory, Supreme, Eternal, and Blissful. In form and formless, O Mother of Universes, you embody Brahma and more.
Shiva's Praise of Goddess Durga
In a humble yet powerful melody, Lord Shiva praised Goddess Durga. This heartfelt praise is known in the Sama Veda as Raga Durga. Indian classical music, far from being mere entertainment, serves as a bridge to spirituality, guided by ragas. The Sama Veda delves deep into music theory, detailing ragas and guiding the singing of hymns from the Rigveda and Yajurveda.
Source: aajtak
Monsoon: The Unique Time for Raga Durga
Each raga is associated with a particular time, season, measure, rhythm, and singing style. 'Raga Durga', encapsulating Goddess Durga's spiritual strength, is unique, combining the power of rituals, vibrant chants, and devotional elegance. Known for its sweetness and simplicity, it is also celebrated for its spiritual depth and cultural richness.
There is debate among musicians and historians about the origin of Raga Durga. Some believe it was developed by North Indian classical musicians in recent times, while others consider it ancient, as it connects with many other Hindustani ragas. In South Indian Carnatic music, it is known as "Shuddha Saveri." It is a pentatonic raga prominently featuring the middle and upper octaves, yielding a vibrant presentation.
Named After Goddess Durga
Raga Durga derives its name from Goddess Parvati or Amba, known as 'Mother Durga', the consort of Lord Shiva. Revered as a symbol of strength, patience, and fearlessness, the name 'Durga' means 'Inaccessible' or 'Impregnable'. Mythology tells that Durga was manifested through the combined divine energies of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and other gods to defeat the mighty demon Mahishasura.
Usually depicted riding a lion with eight or ten arms, each hand bearing a deity-given weapon, she signifies immense power and the triumph over evil. Raga Durga musically embodies this strength and courage.
Traditionally, Raga Durga is recommended to be sung in the second half of the night (from 9 PM to midnight), though it can be performed at any time. Its composition mirrors the image of a warrior goddess dispelling darkness, healing with love and joy. Raga Durga offers divine bliss and protective strength.
Source: aajtak
A Pentatonic Raga - Audava Jati
Raga Durga is a pentatonic (Audava Jati) raga, utilizing just five notes: Sa, Re, Ma, Pa, Dh. Its structure is simplistic yet impactful. Experts suggest its core structure is so universal that similar scales appear in musical traditions worldwide. Its presence in Karnataka music as "Shuddha Saveri" indicates that it bridges North and South Indian music traditions, complemented by depth and confidence in its middle and upper octaves.
Recently, a song from the famous web series Bandish Bandits featured this raga, deeply rooted in classical Raga Durga.
Bandish: "Sakhi Mori Rum Jhum"
Stai:
| Notes: | Sa Re | Ma Ma | Dh Dh | Sa |
| Rhythm: | 1 2 | 3 4 | 5 6 | 7 8 |
| Lyrics: | Sakhi | Mori | Rum | Jhum |
| Notes: | Sa Dh | Ma Re | Sa | - |
| Rhythm: | 9 10 | 11 12 | 13 14 | 15 16 |
| Lyrics: | Barsan | Lagi | Re | - |
Antara:
| Notes: | Ma Ma | Dh Sa | Dh Ma | Re Sa |
| Rhythm: | 1 2 | 3 4 | 5 6 | 7 8 |
| Lyrics: | Sawan | Ki | Rut | Aayi |
This bandish is around 550 years old. Raga Durga in this composition showcases the monsoon season. Note that Raga Durga is a Khayal raga, and this bandish is in a brief Khayal form. Originating from Bilawal thaat, Raga Durga omits the pancham (fifth) note. This bandish is performed in a three-beat cycle.
Aarohan: Sa Re Ma Dh Sa
Avarohan: Sa Dh Ma Re Sa
Vadi: Ma (Middle)
Samvadi: Sa (Root)
Why Mention the Monsoon in the Song?
The song describes the monsoon because once, the goddess transformed into rain herself to dispel a demon's influence, rejuvenating the drought-stricken land. This form was not only enchanting but also a rebellion against oppression. Despite Raga Durga's tenderness and elegance, it embodies rebellion through its rebellious notes.
