Thumri Music

Thumri Music Latest News

Recently, Thumri lost a towering voice with the demise of Pandit Chhannulal Mishra (1936–2025), Padma Vibhushan awardee and one of the last great exponents of the Purab Ang of Banaras Gharana.

About Thumri Music

• Thumri is a semi-classical vocal form of Hindustani music, often called the “lyric of Indian classical music”.
• It originated in Eastern Uttar Pradesh (mainly Lucknow and Benares) during the 18th century CE, developed by Sadiq Ali Shah.
• Themes: Primarily about love, separation, and devotion, often centered on Radha-Krishna episodes.
• Language: Usually sung in Braj Bhasha, Awadhi, and Hindi dialects, with touches of Urdu and Sanskrit.
• Distinct Feature: Freedom in improvisation; emphasis on bhava (emotion) over strict adherence to raga grammar.
• Associated Dance Form: Closely linked with Kathak, enhancing its narrative expression.
• Influences: Draws from Hori, Kajri, Dadra, Jhoola, Chaiti, etc.
• Types of Thumri:
  • Purbi Thumri (Eastern/Slow tempo): More emotional and lyrical, usually associated with Banaras Gharana.
  • Punjabi Thumri (Fast tempo): Energetic, lively, linked with Patiala Gharana.
• Major Gharanas of Thumri:
  • Banaras Gharana – Girija Devi, Rasoolan Bai, Siddheshwari Devi, Chhannulal Mishra.
  • Lucknow Gharana – Courtly refinement under Nawabs, Begum Akhtar.
  • Patiala Gharana – Vibrant style with rhythmic play.

Source: TH

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