“Saghano gahono raatri” was written and published in 1939 when the poet was 78 years old. It belongs to the category of Prakriti (Nature) with a sub-category of Barsha (Monsoon). The Rabindrasangeet is set to the Kaharwa Taal. Kaharwa is a rhythmic structure of eight beats in two equal divisions. It is composed in a mixed Bageshri-Mallar raga.
Raga Bageshri and Malhar are Indian classical ragas which mingle brilliantly. Bageshri has the cadence of night, depicting the emotions of a woman awaiting the return of her beloved. Malhar is connected with extensive rainfall. The notation for the song was given by Shailajaranjan Majumdar which can be found in Vol. 58 of Swarabitan.
“Saghano gahono raatri” beautifully captures the essence of melancholy and longing, painting a vivid picture of a dark and rainy night where emotions are stirred and dreams intertwine. The evocative language and imagery used in the song create a haunting and introspective atmosphere, drawing the listener into a world of deep emotions and contemplation.
The opening lines set the tone for the song, describing the dominance of the monsoon downpour in the darkest of nights. This metaphorical representation of the rain evokes a sense of intensity and emotional turbulence, reflecting the internal turmoil of the narrator.
The juxtaposition of the blinded night being bereft of warmth and the distant horizon where an estranged lover’s tears are taken away by the stars further emphasizes the sense of longing and separation. This contrast highlights the narrator’s yearning for a lost love and the feelings of emptiness that accompany it.
The imagery of the leaves of the Peepul tree rustling as raindrops fall on them adds depth and texture to the song. It portrays the connection between the natural world and the narrator’s emotional state, as the raindrops fill the void of sleeplessness and echo the restlessness of the night.
The mention of a spectral boat floating in from the world of illusions and moving along an endless ocean of dreams introduces a dreamlike and surreal element to the song. It symbolizes the narrator’s inner journey and the mingling of reality and imagination. This imagery evokes a sense of mystery and invites the listener to reflect on the transient nature of dreams and illusions.
Thus, “Saghano gahono raatri” presents a poignant and introspective exploration of emotions, longing, and the interplay between reality and dreams. Through its evocative language and vivid imagery, it immerses the listener in a world of melancholy and introspection. The song captures the profound impact of lost love, the restless beauty of a rainy night, and the elusive nature of dreams. It serves as a testament to the power of music to evoke deep emotions and provoke contemplation about the complexities of the human experience.
