A recent research study conducted at Punjabi University, Patiala, has highlighted the contributions of lesser-known artists associated with playing classical musical instrument “Sitar” in Hindi film music.
The study, done by Vanita under the supervision of Prof Nivedita Uppal at the university’s Music Department, analyzes the creative use of the Sitar in Hindi film music during the 1950s to 1970s.
Uppal told that this was the first study of its kind on this subject. She explained that the research not only provides a musical analysis of the creative use of the Sitar by various music directors in Hindi film music but also highlights the contributions of sitar players whose performances have added beauty to numerous songs.
She said that often, instrumentalists who add vibrant colours to melodies do not receive the recognition they deserve and are overlooked. This has largely been the case with sitar players from the relevant period. Through this research, their valuable contributions have been duly recognized and brought to the forefront.
She further highlighted that the study acknowledges the work of renowned artists like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Rais Khan, as well as lesser-known artists such as Jai Ram Acharya, Arvind Mayekar, and Sunil Das, marking a significant achievement of the research.
Vanita emphasised that the study logically underscores the widespread popularity of Hindi film music, attributing it not only to music directors and singers but also to the significant contributions of these instrumentalists. She added that this research holds immense social and cultural significance by introducing these artists to Hindi film music enthusiasts, researchers, and the current generation.
Notably, under Uppal’s supervision, the Music Department has previously completed significant research on Punjab’s traditional music, including a noteworthy study by research scholar Aman Lata on the propagation and evolving directions of Qawwali in North India.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Jagdeep Singh said that dedicated work in the fields of language, literature, art, and culture is among Punjabi University’s priority. He said that such valuable contributions in the field of music testify to the university’s commitment to its priority objectives.
