The Divine Duet of Voice and Strings: Exploring 'Deviyar Iruvar' and the Magic of Shree Ragam

In the world of cinema, a duet is typically a conversation between two voices. But have you ever heard a song where a human voice competes and converses with a musical instrument? In the 1964 classic Kalai Kovil, there is a masterpiece that defies the norm—a duet between the legendary P. Susheela and the majestic Veena.

The Hero Behind the Scenes

While actor Muthuraman is seen playing the Veena on screen, the soul of the music came from the fingers of the "Veena Maestro" Chitti Babu. Originally, the makers approached S. Balachander, but when he placed a condition to act in the film, the opportunity went to Chitti Babu. His unique, fast-paced style—reminiscent of the Sitar—gives this song its electrifying energy.

Shree Ragam: The Auspicious Sound

As part of our Margazhi special "Oru Naal Podhuma," we delve into the raga behind this song: Shree Ragam. A derivative (Janya) of the 22nd Melakarta Karaharapriya, it is considered one of the most auspicious ragas in Carnatic music.

• Arohanam: S R₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ

• Avarohanam: Ṡ N₂ P M₁ R₂ G₂ R₂ S

While it is closely related to Madhyamavati, the distinct "RGRS" phrase in its descent is what gives Shree Ragam its unique identity. In film music, maintaining such strict grammar is rare, which is why pure Shree Ragam songs are hard to find. However, in "Deviyar Iruvar," the Veena portions brilliantly capture these nuances.

Technical Brilliance on Screen

Playing the Veena on screen is no easy task. It requires independent coordination: the right hand strums while the left hand moves across frets, all while the pinky finger maintains the rhythm (tala strings). Muthuraman did a commendable job capturing these subtle finger positions, a feat only mastered by legends like Sivaji Ganesan (in Paattum Naane) or Savitri (in Konjum Salangai).

The Lyrical Depth of Kannadasan

The "Kaviyarasar" Kannadasan wove a story within the lyrics. The song features a dancer (Rajasri) flirting with the art and the artist, while the protagonist's wife looks on with growing insecurity.

"கலைகளிலே அவன் மறைந்திருந்தான் கை விரலில் அவன் பிறந்து வந்தான்" (He was hidden within the arts; he was born through his fingertips...)

These lines perfectly capture how the music bridges the gap between the creator and the listener.

A Modern Connection

Did you know that A.R. Rahman used a specific Shree Ragam phrase in a modern hit? In the song "Raasali" from Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada, you can hear the influence of the Valachi Vachchi varnam (specifically the Shree Ragam portion) around the 2:05 mark.

Conclusion

"Deviyar Iruvar" is more than just a song; it is a celebration of the Veena and the timeless beauty of Shree Ragam. The precision of P. Susheela’s breath control and Chitti Babu's lightning-fast strings make it a "gold standard" in film-classical fusion.

Watch the original song here: Deviyar Iruvar - YouTube

Stay tuned for next week's "Oru Naal Podhuma" special, where we will explore another Veena-based masterpiece in Abheri Ragam. Can you guess the song?