Jugalbandhi

Jugalbandhi is a popular variety of concert involving two eminent artists of music, who perform together in a competitive manner. These two artists may belong to the same system of music (Hindustani or Carnatic) or different streams. The word ‘jugalbandhi’ is derived by combining the Sanskrit word ‘yugala,’ meaning pair, and ‘bandh,’ which means to unite or join.

Jugalbandhi usually involves musicians, although it sometimes involves vocal artists also. The two artists perform a particular item, contributing their individual expertise and touch to it. The striking feature of this kind performance is the absence of any rehearsal prior to the show. The show is marked by lack of order, coherence or of any particular sequence, which makes it popular among the audience.