The name Durga is derived from the name of the goddess Amba or Parvati. She is the wife of Shiva, and is associated with great power. She is also referred to as 'Ma Durga' or 'Durga Mata', which means 'Mother Durga'. She is said to represent patience and fearlessness.
The origin of raga Durga is obscure. It has been suggested that this raga is derived from the south Indian Shuddha Saveri. This is certainly possible, for it is very common for North Indians to 'borrow' ragas from the South. But in such cases, they usually retain their south Indian names (e.g., Charukesi, Kalavati).
Though originally Durga Raga is from South Indian classical music, this Raga is equally suitable for Hindustani classical music style. Durga Raga has qualities of brightness, innocence and purity. It always reminds us of the hills. The time traditionally prescribed for this Raga is late evening but, this is one Raga that lends itself to anytime of day and to both slow and lively tempo. Khayals and Bandishes are composed very nicely and people practically sway and dance to the melodic compositions. Raga Durga can help to release stress. Raga Durga is filled with innocence and purity. It is traditionally performed from late evening to midnight.
Though originally from South Indian Classical Music, this Raga is equally suitable for Hindustani Classical Music style. Khayals and Bandishen and very nicely composed and people practically sway and dance to the melodic compositions. Pancham should not be a resting note in Avroh.
The Raga is of Audav – Audav nature, both its Aroha and Avaroha use only five notes. All the Swaras used are Shuddha. Gandhar and Nishad are not used. It is a purvaranga-pradhan raga with the lower notes on the saptak being used more frequently.
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