manju mehta raag gavti jor 3

raag gavti jor 3

The Ambience of the Afternoon

Times of India, Bombay, Thursday, Feb. 10, 1994

Manju Mehta, a serious sitarist from Ahmedabad, is an example of how many talented artistes like herself do not get the opportunities to be heard enough. By the time due recognition comes in the form of invitations, the artiste crosses his or her prime, or may be unable to refrain from playing to the gallery or to present truly mature and aesthetically appealing music.

Having received initial training from her brother, Shashi Mohan Bhatt and Damodarlal Kabra, Manju is now under the tutelage of Pt. Ravi Shankar.

Usually Afternoon melodies like Shuddha Sarang are not favorites of artists. Yet Manju's authoritative exposition of this melody deserves special mention.

The tantalizing touch of komal and teevra madhyam, with an anticipatory stay on rishabha and nishad, created a special afternoon ambience, with the theme developing in all its brightness. Her fondness for elaborate alaap, and imaginative jod is understandable, but what makes her stand apart is her quick manoeuvering through the limited jhala to two gats, thus avoiding repetition. Either way, the sequences were devoid of bombastic phrases.

Her short piece in Basant too was a breath of fresh air, devoid of gimmickry. The cascading and linear development, executed with grace, provided a perfect close to the concert: it was without din or fury and touched the heart. . . . .

Bharti Chokshi -disciple- shared video October 30,1999 APAI

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Music

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[chokshibharti]

She is a great artist,her music touches the soul