That Which Colours the Mind

Immerse yourself in the timeless mastery of Ravi Shankar with "That Which Colours the Mind," a captivating album released in 2011. This collection, spanning nearly 80 minutes, showcases the legendary sitarist's virtuosity and his enduring influence on both Eastern and Western music. The album features a rich tapestry of ragas and traditional Indian classical music, including standout tracks like "Raga Abhogi," "Thumri," and "Raga Puriya Kalyan." Each piece is a testament to Shankar's ability to weave intricate melodies and rhythms, demonstrating his unparalleled skill and innovation.

"Raga Des" and "Sitar Todi" highlight Shankar's ability to evoke deep contemplation and tranquility, while "Tabla Solo - Jhaptal" and "Sitar, Sarode Et Tabla" showcase the dynamic interplay between instruments. The album also includes lesser-known modes like "Le Mode Ahiri-Lalita" and "Le Mode Sindhi-Bhairavi," offering a comprehensive exploration of Shankar's musical repertoire.

Despite being recorded late in his career, at the age of 90, Shankar's playing remains as inventive and agile as ever, a testament to his lifelong dedication to his art. This album is a perfect introduction for those new to Shankar's work and a delightful addition for longtime fans, capturing the essence of his unique musical vision.

Ravi Shankar, born Robindro Shaunkor Chowdhury, was a trailblazing Indian sitarist and composer who captivated global audiences with his mastery of Hindustani classical music. Born in Varanasi in 1920, Shankar's journey began as a dancer touring Europe before he dedicated himself to the sitar, studying under the renowned guru Baba Allaudin Khan. Throughout his career, he became the world's most famous sitar player, earning the title of Pandit and spreading appreciation for Indian classical music worldwide. Shankar's influence extended far beyond his performances; he collaborated with Western musicians, composed for films, and even mentored his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitarist Anoushka Shankar. His contributions to music were recognized with India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999. Shankar's legacy endures as a testament to his unparalleled artistry and his role in bridging Eastern and Western musical traditions.