Art
is an expression of an imaginative and creative mind. From where does an artist
gain this imagination? Is it from the Nature around? Nature is full of sounds
and images, textures and fragrances. All these natural elements appeal to the
emotions of human beings. There is a soul connection between Nature and humans.
The
cave man cried with grief due to natural calamities, squealed with joy due to
natural phenomenons, screamed with fear and gradually learned to communicate
with the help of sounds. Gradually these sounds were entwined in patterns and
as language developed these sound patterns became meaningful expressions.
Whatever
touched the heart of the aboriginal or the adivasi
human began to be expressed through melodies. These soul-stirring melodies
passed down from generation to generation initially in oral form and later in
written forms.
These
folk songs are of varied nature. If we talk about rain there will be songs
requesting the rain god to bless the earth, there will be songs about the
happiness of a good harvest due to rains and also songs about pining lovers
eager to enjoy the rain together.
In
Indian classical music there are special ragas for every season of the year.
During the rainy season, the Raga Malhar
and its various types are sung and played by classical musicians with joy and
fervour. An accomplished musician can create the atmosphere of rains with
elaborate musical phrases technically known as aalaap in the rendition of the malhars.
The
semi-classical singers sing Saavan,
Jhoola and other such special compositions attributed to rain.
Even
the film music has a treasure trove of rain songs.
Rain,
a natural phenomenon recurring every year is celebrated by all musical souls
alike.
Please
feel free to post links of your favourite rain songs in the comments below.
