Maestro Khayyam lived and breathed like all of us mortals at sea level. But his soul, somehow, was always connected to the mountains. Otherwise, why would he compose most of his songs based on Raaga Pahadi? Despite most Hindi film composers using that raaga for their compositions, at some time or the other, why would only one composer’s name become the raaga’s ‘trademark’?
Raaga Pahadi is a popular raga based on folk music. As its name suggests, it originates from the mountainous region of the Himalayas and has been associated with Kashmiri folk melody. It is a simple light raaga that resembles a dhun. Its aesthetic spirit is radically distinctive, yet it is not considered a major raaga like the Darbari, Yaman, Bhairvi, Kedar and other such raagas. However, a dignified treatment elevates it to the rightful stature of an exquisite raaga — beautiful, intense and elegant.
Khayyam’s delicate, soulful music touches everyone who has an ear for music; rooted in Indian classical music, it has the touch of a ghazal. The overall style of his music stands apart, different from the popular music of those days; his compositions are melodious and emotional; the songs, rich in poetry and purpose.
Beyond his obsession with Raaga Pahadi, what distinguished Khayyam’s music was the superior quality of poetry in all his songs. For him, the purpose of music was to make the lyrics come alive. He had the sagacity to keep his tunes simple, instruments minimal; through his style, he carved out his special niche in the music industry.
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