The Ravi Shankar Collection: Three Ragas

Dive into the enchanting world of Indian classical music with Ravi Shankar's "The Ravi Shankar Collection: Three Ragas," a beautifully remastered album that captures the essence of three timeless ragas. Originally released as an LP in 1956, this collection was digitally remastered and reissued in 2000, bringing the rich, intricate sounds of Ravi Shankar's sitar to a new generation of listeners.

This album features three iconic ragas: Raga Jog, Raga Ahir Bhairav, and Raga Simhendra Madhyamam, each meticulously performed by the legendary sitarist. The remastering process, overseen by Angel Records, ensures that the original monophonic master tapes are faithfully reproduced, providing a clear and immersive listening experience. The album's duration of 54 minutes offers a comprehensive exploration of these classical ragas, making it an excellent introduction to the medium of Indian music.

Ravi Shankar, a pioneer in bringing Indian classical music to the Western world, began his musical journey at a young age, touring with his brother Uday Shankar's dance troupe and studying under the renowned Allauddin Khan. His profound understanding of ragas and his mastery of the sitar are evident in every note of this album.

"Three Ragas" is not just a collection of songs; it is a journey through the rich tapestry of Indian musical tradition. Each raga tells a story, evokes a mood, and transports the listener to a place of deep reflection and tranquility. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Indian classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating and enriching experience.

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.