Source: PIB
Context: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated ‘MALHAR 2026’, a youth-centric, monsoon-themed celebration of Indian classical music, organised by Antar Hriday Connect in New Delhi.
About MALHAR 2026
- Objective: a cultural programme showcasing India’s classical music traditions and celebrating its diverse artistic heritage, while providing a platform for classical musicians, traditional performers and music enthusiasts.
- Activities: competitions and performances across classical and contemporary music, dance, theatre and literary events.
- Participation: wide participation from educational institutions, cultural groups and emerging artists representing different regions of India.
What is Malhar Raga?
- A classical music tradition associated with the monsoon season (Varsha Ritu), linked to the legendary 16th-century court musician Tansen.
- The tradition behind it. Indian classical music assigns ragas to seasons and times of day. Malhar belongs to the rains, and the enduring legend holds that Tansen’s rendition of Miyan ki Malhar could bring down rainfall.
- Tansen was one of the Navaratnas — the nine gems — at the court of Akbar. He is credited with creating several ragas including Miyan ki Malhar, Miyan ki Todi and Darbari Kanada.
- Related ragas in the Malhar family: Megh Malhar, Miyan ki Malhar, Gaud Malhar, Ramdasi Malhar.
