India is a country that has a rich and diverse culture. To celebrate that diversity and heritage, Amazon Prime Video has brought you one of the most magical journeys. This Independence Day, celebrate India’s rich musical heritage through the eyes and musical stylings of A.R. Rahman‘s new show, Harmony. The show takes you on a journey as he strives to bring alive the almost forgotten musical traditions of India.
Each episode is a beautiful homage to the rich and diverse culture and sounds of this marvellous country. You get to travel back into the past and also explore the future of Indian music. Through the series, you explore India’s rich musical heritage that is viewed through the prism of four specially curated instruments and vocal traditions. Each and every one of these, represent the geographic and historic diversity of the country. The beauty of each episode lies in the fact that as a viewer, you are able to dive into the depths of history through Rahman’s experiences.
You get to see some of India’s finest musical maestros and get an in-depth insight into the traditional music forms, their everyday life and how they are teaching the next generation to keep the legacy alive. The conversations will ignite your soul with passion and to be watching the exchange of ideas between Rahman and them is truly exciting. Not only are their musical talents explored, it also explores the scenic locations where they and these wonderful musical styles originated from.
At the end of every episode, there is a musical jam session that is set against a stunning background from some of the most beautiful locations in India. The four states that are explored are Maharashtra, Kerala, Sikkim and Manipur. With musical geniuses like Ustad Mohi Baha’un-din Dagar, Kalamandalam Sajith Vijayan, Lourembam Bedabati Devi and Mickma Tshering Lepcha you are treated to some of the best maestros that the country has to offer.
Additionally, there are four traditional styles captured. Rudra Veena which is an ancient classical plucked string instrument from North India, with an unbroken musical lineage since its creation until the present. Mizhavu which is a sacred drum from the temples of Kerala which is made from the large metal drum and normally performed as an accompaniment for Koodiyattam. Panthong Palith which is a wooden flute from Sikkim, played by the Lepchas in order to communicate with the gods. Lastly, Khuilang Eshei which is a vanishing folk song tradition from Manipur, with a distinct identity and vocal technique.
The final episode of the series is when all his experiences culminate and come together to create one of the most magical experiences. If you’re someone who follows the music and the historical progression of it, this series is definitely something you can’t afford to miss. It is the perfect modern tribute to India’s diverse musical history and paying an ode to old traditions. Don’t forget to catch this on Amazon Prime Video, today!
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