The science behind the art form.
Carnatic music is built upon 7 notes, which expand into 12 distinct pitch positions (Swarasthanas).
| Swara | Full Name | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| S | Shadjam | The tonic note. Constant and immovable. |
| R | Rishabham | Three variations: Suddha, Chatusruti, Shatsruti. |
| G | Gandharam | Three variations: Suddha, Sadharana, Antara. |
| M | Madhyamam | Two variations: Suddha, Prati. |
| P | Panchamam | The perfect fifth. Constant and immovable. |
There are 72 fundamental parent scales known as Melakarta Ragas. They are divided into two halves based on the Madhyamam (M1 vs M2).
Ragas 1 to 36. Includes popular ragas like Mayamalavagowla (15) and Shankarabharanam (29).
Ragas 37 to 72. Includes Kalyani (65) and Shanmukhapriya (56).