Rag Shuddha Kalyan

A.K.A. Bhup Kalyan

Description

Shuddha Kalyan, also known as Bhup Kalyan, is a variation upon Bhupali. It is formed by the addition of Shuddha Ni and Tivra Ma in the avarohana.

The addition of these two notes is done by connecting the descent from Sa to shuddha Dha by means of a meend (slide), and in a similar manner the descent from Pa to Ga also in a meend. Unfortunately, this is so subtle that it is difficult at times to discern whether one is listening to Bhupali with a mere ornamentation or Shuddha Kalyan.

Things often become clear in tans when the tivra Ma and shuddha Ni tend to be more clearly articulated. However, it is common among many musicians not to clearly articulate these notes even in a tan.

It is not surprising that such subtleties are generally lost in lighter interpretations. Therefore in the film industry, Shuddha Kalyan usually becomes lost in the Bhupali/Deshkar mishmash.