Gond (raga)
Gond is a raga in Hindustani classical music. It is traditionally associated with the late evening or early night hours. While specific details vary according to different gharanas (musical schools), Gond generally belongs to the Kalyan thaat.
Characteristics:
- Thaat: Kalyan
- Vadi: Sa (Shadja) or Ga (Gandhar), depending on the interpretation.
- Samavadi: Pa (Pancham) or Ni (Nishad), depending on the interpretation.
- Arohana: Sa Re Ga Ma Dha Ni Sa
- Avarohana: Sa Ni Dha Pa Ma Ga Re Sa
- Pakad: (characteristic phrase) Varies greatly between gharanas, but generally emphasizes the characteristic notes of the raga.
Description:
Gond is a serious and majestic raga, known for its expansive and contemplative mood. It often evokes feelings of tranquility and devotion. The shuddha (natural) forms of Re (Rishabh), Ga (Gandhar), Dha (Dhaivat), and Ni (Nishad) are prominent. The raga allows for a wide range of improvisational exploration within its characteristic framework. It is often performed using both slow (vilambit) and fast (drut) tempos.
Related Ragas:
There are several related ragas and ragangas (raga derivatives) that share similarities with Gond, often distinguished by subtle variations in note usage and emphasis. Examples include Yaman, Bhoop Kalyan, and Shuddha Kalyan. It is important to note the distinct characteristic movements to avoid confusion between these ragas.
Further Study:
Understanding Gond requires dedicated study and practice under the guidance of an experienced guru. Recordings and performances by prominent artists can offer valuable insight into the raga's intricacies and nuances. Different gharanas present varying interpretations of Gond, making it a rich and multifaceted subject of study for serious students of Hindustani classical music.