9/29/08

Girija Devi

Girija Devi is a senior and renowned Indian female classical vocalist, who represents the Banaras Gharana of singers. Born on 8 May 1929 in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Girija Devi has been gifted with the most mellifluous voice.Girija Devi's a genius in her sphere of Indian classical vocal rendition.
"I love decorating words with music. Take for instance the line 'rasa ke bhare toreb nain', suggesting the Lord's eyes being a repository of emotions. I imagine a hindered gopis or devotees seeking attention in the eyes of the Lords. Some see in him a tinge of jealousy. Others perceive a hint of pride or carefree abandon. Others see only a divinity; some the playfulness of Krishna. I use notes to suit the mood of the sentiment so that a single line can be sung to at least 25 different interpretations."

Girija Devi & Piya Mukherjee, Raag Bilaskhani Todi, part 2