The Banaras-Ang (Style) of Thumri

The famous city of Banaras has a long and rich history of symbolizing the cultural ethos of India. This holy city is home to famed temples as well as to some of the most revered musicians and dancers of Hindustani classical music. Their list is long. From Moizuddeen Khan to Bade Ramdas, Chote Ramdas, Anokhelal ji, Kanthe Maharaj, Bismillah Khan, Samta Prasad, Siddheshwari Devi, Rasoolan Bai, Mahadev Mishra, Badi Moti Bai, Sitara Devi and Birju Maharaj have all been rooted in the great artistic traditions of Banaras.

Banaras has been the home to Thumri from times immemorial.Thumri and Banaras are virtually synonymous as the classicism of Thumri and it’s most embellished and stylized presentation is evident in the Banaras “BOL-BANAO” Thumris. Some of the finest exponents of Thumri have been Banarasis. As the folk lore, traditions and literary nuances added depth to it, the Banarasi Thumri became the most authentic and celebrated form of Thumri in India. Colourful festivals like the “Budhwa Mangal” and the “Gulab Bari” lent a unique ambience to concerts in Banaras. These festivals saw the most beautiful and talented courtesans of yore perform on the banks of Ganges sailing in small boats and rose petals adorned the venue as well as the audience while Gulab Bari was held.

Kumud Diwan performs in the pure Banaras tradition of Thumri, as she has had her tutelage under the Banaras gharana masters. Her Senior Fellowship with the Ministry of Culture keeps her going back to Banaras to soak up its sights, sounds and its Sangeet.

Design Nasadiya Arts 2009