India Post released a special commemorative cover to mark the birth centenary of Annapurna Devi, one of the most revered figures in Hindustani classical music. The special cover was released at Kolkata General Post Office (GPO) by Annapurna Devi Foundation as a tribute to her immense contribution to Indian music. The release recognises her legacy as a legendary Surbahar (bass sitar) player and guru.
Annapurna Devi
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Name | Annapurna Devi |
| Field | Hindustani Classical Music |
| Instrument | Surbahar (bass sitar) |
| Gharana | Maihar Gharana |
| Award | Padma Bhushan |
- She was a highly respected yet reclusive musician.
- Daughter of Ustad Allauddin Khan, founder of the Maihar Gharana.
- Known for her exceptional mastery of the surbahar, a deep-toned classical instrument.
- Played a crucial role as a guru shaping generations of musicians, despite limited public performances.
About Surbahar
- Also known as the bass sitar
- Used mainly for dhrupad-style alap (slow, meditative exploration of ragas)
- Produces deep and resonant sound, ideal for serious classical renditions
Annapurna Devi is regarded as one of the greatest exponents of this rare instrument.
Hindustani Classical Music
Hindustani classical music is one of the two major traditions of Indian classical music.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
| Origin | North India (13th–14th century) |
| Influences | Vedic traditions + Persian elements |
| Core Concept | Raga system |
| Nature | Primarily vocal-centric |
Raga System
- A raga is a melodic framework used for composition and improvisation.
- Built on seven basic notes: Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni: Ragas define the mood, time, and structure of a musical performance.
Gharana System
Hindustani music follows a tradition of Gharanas (schools/styles).
Popular Gharanas
- Gwalior Gharana
- Agra Gharana
- Jaipur Gharana
- Indore Gharana
- Maihar Gharana (associated with Annapurna Devi)
Each gharana has its own distinct style and teaching tradition.
Major Vocal Forms in Hindustani Music
| Form | Description |
| Dhrupad | Oldest form; devotional and serious |
| Khayal | Most popular; allows improvisation |
| Thumri | Light classical, expressive |
| Tarana | Fast-paced, rhythmic |
| Ghazal | Persian-origin poetic form |
| Dhammar | Associated with Holi festival |
Key Forms Explained
Dhrupad
- Ancient and serious form
- Sung with tanpura and pakhawaj
- Themes: devotion or heroism
Khayal
- Flexible and improvisational
- Based on a few lines of lyrics
Thumri
- Light and expressive
- Originated in courts like that of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
Tarana
- Fast compositions expressing joy
Ghazal
- Poetic form dealing with love, devotion, and emotions