The Raga Appreciation Society at Durham University (RASAD) invites you to our monthly student-led event on 4th February from 1 pm to 2 pm in the Concert Room, Divinity House. 

This month’s theme is “Rasa and Resonance: Female Emotions as Sonic Gestures in Thumri” and will feature a captivating demonstration by Mazha S Muhammed, an exchange PhD student, Hindustani singer, and ethnomusicologist. She will be accompanied by Dilip Chaggar, on the tabla. 

We warmly welcome all those interested to join us for this enriching experience!

Demonstration Abstract:

Thumri, a celebrated North Indian vocal genre, is renowned for its interpretive depth and emotive potency. Central to its artistry is improvisation, a hallmark of Indian art music, which allows for a myriad of interpretive realms to unfold. In Thumri, female emotions are vividly articulated through a blend of physical gestures (abhinaya) and sonic gestures, making sound a powerful medium for narrative expression. This presentation delves into how female emotions are portrayed through sonic gestures in Thumri, where sound itself becomes a vehicle for storytelling. It examines vocal and musical devices such as voice modulation, melodic and rhythmic shifts, and the articulation of diverse expressions. The presentation will demonstrate how Thumri incorporates a conversational element in its singing, known as Kehan (say) and Pukar (cry/call), fostering an intimate connection between the performer and the audience.

We encourage in-person participation for the best experience, but if you wish to join us online, here is a link:

https://durhamuniversity.zoom.us/j/97137378297?pwd=1Cz2VtrvsWsmvUo8uhbLgmql6TjNXR.1