Resource center for music lovers - Indian Classical Music & Ragas

What is a Raaga - Raga?

Ragas occupy a very dominant position in Indian Classical Music

Definitions of a Raaga - Raga

• "Swaro Ki Wah Anupam Rachna Jise Sunkar Anand Ki Prapti Ho, Raag Kahlati Hai"

• "A Raag is a beautiful combination of musical notes that is pleasing to the ears when sung or played on a musical instrument"

Based on the rules of Indian Classical Music, to qualify as a Raga, the combination of notes must have the following features -

• Notes ( swaras) - There must be atleast 5 notes or a maximum of 7 notes (swaras) in a Raag.
• Aaroh & Avroh - Every Raga must have an “Aaroh” - ascending notes & an “Avroh” - descending movement of notes.
• Vadi & Samvadi - Every raag must have “Vadi” - most prominent & dominating notes and “Samvadi” notes - notes that complement the dominating notes.
• Melodious - A raag must be pleasant sounding and must be able to enchant the listener with its melody.
• Key Note - The key not can never be missing in a Raag - ie, “C” note or “Shadaj”.

In Indian Classical Music, many different ragas are recognised and played. Each ragas has its own mood and specific identity which defines it.

Also read - What is a Taal?

Here is a List of Classical Indian Ragas