Mohanam Ragam

                                                       Mohanam Ragam

Arohanam:   S R2 G3 P D2 S
Avarohanam:   S D2 P G3 R2 S

Mohana Rāga

Mohana Rāga, also known simply as Mohanam, is one of the most popular and widely used rāgas in Carnatic music. It is an Audava rāga, meaning it consists of five notes in both the ascending (Arohana) and descending (Avarohana) scales.

Characteristics of Mohana Rāga

1. Pentatonic Scale: Mohana Rāga employs a pentatonic scale, using five notes.
2. Joyful and Uplifting: The raga is known for its bright, joyous, and uplifting character, often used in compositions meant to evoke happiness and devotion.
3. No Varjya (Omitted) Notes: It omits the Madhyama (M) and Nishada (N) swaras, contributing to its unique sound.

Structure

• Arohana (Ascending Scale): S R₂ G₃ P D₂ S
• Avarohana (Descending Scale): S D₂ P G₃ R₂ S

Here, the notes are:

• S (Shadjam)
• R₂ (Chatusruti Rishabham)
• G₃ (Antara Gandharam)
• P (Panchamam)
• D₂ (Chatusruti Dhaivatam)

Parent Melakarta

• Parent Melakarta: Harikambhoji (28th Melakarta)

Examples of Compositions in Mohana Rāga

1. "Ninnukori" by Poochi Srinivasa Iyengar

   • This is a popular varnam that serves as a staple for many vocal and instrumental performances, especially at the beginning of a concert.

2. "Rara Venu Gopabala" by Thyagaraja

   • This is a well-known kriti that is often taught to students of Carnatic music.

3. "Kapali" by Papanasam Sivan

   • This kriti is another example of the joyful and devotional spirit that Mohana Rāga can evoke.

4. "Mohana Rama" by Thyagaraja

   • This composition showcases the beauty of the rāga and its potential for elaborate improvisation.

Importance in Carnatic Music

• Beginner-Friendly: Due to its simplicity and the pleasant sound of the pentatonic scale, Mohana Rāga is often one of the first rāgas taught to beginners in Carnatic music.
• Versatility: Despite its simple structure, Mohana Rāga is extremely versatile and can be used in various compositions, from simple varnams to complex kritis.
• Improvisation: The rāga provides ample scope for improvisation, allowing performers to explore a wide range of melodic ideas within its framework.

Emotional and Aesthetic Appeal

• Uplifting and Auspicious: The bright and auspicious nature of Mohana Rāga makes it suitable for a variety of occasions, particularly those that call for a joyous and uplifting atmosphere.
• Devotional and Meditative: While primarily joyous, the rāga can also be used to evoke devotion and meditative tranquility, depending on the context of the composition and performance.

Conclusion

Mohana Rāga is a fundamental and highly cherished rāga in Carnatic music, celebrated for its simplicity, versatility, and emotional depth. Its pentatonic structure makes it accessible to beginners while providing a rich canvas for seasoned musicians to explore and express a wide range of emotions. The joyous and uplifting character of Mohana Rāga ensures its continued popularity and significance in the Carnatic music repertoire.

Film Songs:

Mohana Rāga has been used extensively in Telugu film music due to its bright, uplifting, and melodic nature. Here are some notable Telugu film songs composed in Mohana Rāga:

1. "Andamaina Lokam" from the film Swati Kiranam

   • Composer: K. V. Mahadevan
   • This song beautifully captures the essence of Mohana Rāga, showcasing its joyous and uplifting character.

2. "Seethamma Andalu" from the film Sithamma Andalu Ramayya Sitralu

   • Composer: Gopi Sunder
   • A pleasant and melodious song that uses the pentatonic scale of Mohana Rāga effectively.

3. "Enno Ratrulostayi" from the film Dharma Kshetram

   • Composer: M. M. Keeravani
   • This song uses the bright and engaging quality of Mohana Rāga, making it a memorable piece.

4. "Aakasham Dinchala Nilachalu" from the film Swathi Kiranam

   • Composer: K. V. Mahadevan
   • Another beautiful composition in Mohana Rāga, capturing the essence of the raga's melodic beauty.

5. "Sirimalle Puvva" from the film Devatha

   • Composer: Ilaiyaraaja
   • A classic song that showcases the simplicity and charm of Mohana Rāga.

6. "Kanulalo Kalanu Pilichina" from the film Kanne Vayasu

   • Composer: Rajan–Nagendra
   • This song effectively uses the pentatonic notes of Mohana Rāga to create a soothing and melodious experience.

Importance in Film Music

Mohana Rāga's use in Telugu film music highlights its versatility and appeal. Its pentatonic structure allows for easy composition and a wide range of emotional expressions, from joy and celebration to devotion and tranquility. These songs are just a few examples of how the raga has been adapted into popular film music, contributing to its timeless appeal and continued relevance in contemporary compositions.

Websites:

https://www.indiapicks.com/SNT_Telugu/P-217.htm

https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-magical-mohanam/article2459174.ece

Youtube Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtm_att5zCQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vg3BZMAysds

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KUloBKpwmo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoTQ3ZYK-Qw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4xyNIT7IsI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm_toQVGb0w

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXHLLlPMdjI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcUNGbLrMcY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MHsHfFS0J0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXHLLlPMdjI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZtroe7_iKE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SwPNk_y1Kc