Odissi and Kabisurjya: An Introduction to the Kishori Champu

Introduction:

Odissi music is a classical music tradition originating from the state of Odisha, my homestate. Rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, (especially the in the works of Jayadeva) and temple traditions, it embodies the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression of the region. With its origins dating back to the 2nd century BCE, Odissi music has evolved and flourished over centuries, captivating audiences with its unique melodies, rhythmic intricacies, and emotive storytelling.

At the heart of Odissi music is its melodic framework, characterized by the use of ragas, which are intricate melodic scales that evoke specific moods and emotions. These ragas form the foundation of compositions, guiding the improvisational elements and providing a framework for the musician's creative expression. The music is further enriched by the utilization of intricate microtones and ornamentations, giving it a distinct and enchanting flavour.

One of the distinguishing features of Odissi music is its close association with the Odissi dance form. The music and dance are inseparable, often performed together in elaborate dances known as "mangalacharana," "sthayee," "pallavi," "abhinaya," and "moksha." The intricate footwork, graceful hand gestures, and fluid movements of Odissi dance find their musical counterpart in the dynamic rhythms and melodic nuances of Odissi music. Together, they create a mesmerizing visual and auditory spectacle, captivating the audience with their synchronized beauty and emotive power.

The instruments used in Odissi music contribute to its unique timbre and texture. The main accompanying instrument is the marddala, a barrel-shaped drum that provides the rhythmic foundation. In rhythmic section, we also see the usage of the khanjani, manjira and mrudanga or khola too. The deep resonant tones of the rhythmic section create a dynamic interplay with the melodic instruments like the Odissi veena, and flute enhancing the overall sonic experience. Now, many other instruments have been inculcated into the music which were not traditionally from Odisha, to name a few, harmonium, violin and sitar.

Over the years, Odissi music has gained recognition and acclaim on national and international platforms, captivating audiences with its intricate melodies, rhythmic complexities, and profound emotional depth. Renowned musicians and composers have contributed to its preservation and innovation, further enriching its repertoire and expanding its horizons.

Part 1: Odia Poets and Literature

Now, coming to what the "Odissi Classical Music" part of the blog will be all about- the literature.

The lyrical aspect of Odissi music is deeply rooted in Odia literature and mythology. The lyrics often draw inspiration from ancient texts, such as the Gita Govinda and the works of Odia poets like Banamali, Kabisurjya Baladeba Ratha, Kabisamrat Upendra Bhanja, Dinakrushna Dash, etc. They explore a range of themes, from devotion and love to the complexities of human emotions. Through poetic verses, the music transports listeners to a world of divine romance, celestial beauty, and spiritual introspection.

Although I am an ardent fan of Kabisamrat Upendra Bhanja, one has to agree that Kavisurya Baladeba Ratha is the undisputed master of "Champu" in Odissi music. He is renowned for his extraordinary contributions to the art form. Although there are other poets who have written Champu's but one has to give credit to Kabisurjya as the most popular amongst all. The epithet "Kabisurya," meaning "The Sun Among Poets," vividly captures his exceptional literary skills and immense talent. His most celebrated work, the Kishora Chandrananda Champu, holds such eminence that the very term "Champu" has become synonymous with his creations in the hearts of the people of Odisha.

Kabisurjya Baladeba Ratha

The Kishora Chandrananda Champu is a remarkable compilation that showcases Kabisurjya's unparalleled creativity and ingenuity. It encompasses a collection of individual champus, with each champu dedicated to one of the 34 consonants present in the Odia alphabet. From Ka (କ) to Kshya (କ୍ଷ), Kabisurjya meticulously crafted a melodious composition for every consonant, demonstrating his deep understanding of the intricacies of music and his profound devotion to the Odissi tradition.

Kabisurjya's magnum opus has become a cherished treasure of Odissi music, captivating audiences with its rich melodies and lyrical beauty. The Kishora Chandrananda Champu not only showcases Kabisurjya's mastery as a composer but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Odissi music. Through his profound literary and musical genius, Kabisurjya has not only enriched the cultural heritage of Odisha but also inspired generations of artists and musicians to explore the depths of their artistic potential.

In the realm of Odissi music, Kavisurya Baladev Rath's contributions remain unparalleled, his name forever etched in the annals of Odisha's artistic legacy. His unique ability to intertwine poetry and music in the form of Champu has elevated the genre to new heights, captivating audiences and preserving the essence of Odissi music for generations to come.

Part 2: Purpose of this Blog (one amongst many)

The inspiration for this blog arose from a profound incident that occurred while I was in the company of individuals engaged in singing Champu. I noticed that they were inadvertently singing incorrect lyrics, and when I brought this to their attention, they readily accepted my correction. This made me ponder: What if I had been mistaken in my assertion?

Odissi, as it is known, is "sahitya-pradhan sangeeta", i.e., it places immense importance on its lyrical content, considering it to be the crux of the art form. In that moment, it struck me that these singers lacked a true understanding of what they were singing. They had been taught a specific rendition without grasping the depth and essence of the compositions, resulting in a parrot-like repetition. As I delved deeper into the issue by conversing with students, I discovered that many teachers were merely teaching the songs without providing explanations of their meanings. This approach inadvertently dilutes the essence of the music. While there are still individuals who ardently seek to comprehend the poetry before rendering it, their numbers remain regrettably few.

The objective of this blog is to offer detailed explanations of songs, starting from the champus created by the renowned Kabisurjya Baladeba Ratha, whose introduction I have already given. It will serve as a valuable resource for students and enthusiasts, providing comprehensive insights into these compositions. Additionally, I am excited to share that I am working on a book, which will serve as a comprehensive guide. This book will delve even deeper, featuring critical commentary, in-depth analysis, and other invaluable resources, offering readers a more detailed and comprehensive exploration of Odissi music's rich heritage. This book is not driven by commercial interests but rather by a genuine commitment to documenting the art form and its intricate nuances.

Through this blog and forthcoming book, my goal is to contribute to the preservation and dissemination of this cherished art form, ensuring its continued appreciation and understanding.