Miyan Ki Todi

Miya ki Todi is one of the major Hindustani Ragas. The name is often interpreted as to suggest that Miyan Tansen - the legendary musician in the court of Emperor Akbar was the creator of the Raga. However, this only means that the Raga is old and that it is highly honoured. It is also important to note that Pt. Bhatkhande's discussions as summarized in his volume conclude that Shuddha Todi, Darbari Todi and Miyan Ki Todi are best to be taken as references to the same Raga. Bhatkhande has noted with apt element of surprise that musicological texts such as Sangeet Ratnakara, Sangeet Darpana seem to agree on the constitution of the Raga. Swaramelakalanidhi appears to look down upon the Raga - describing it as deshi, Adhama, Sankirna etc. Some scholars have noted that the ancient Greek Doric mode was similar and might be the name and the Raga-scale are instances of musical exchanges. The mode was associated with Dorians-a clan. It is interesting to note that Plato approved of the mode and recommended it for is sober and manly character.