Saraswati ragam

 Saraswati ragam

Saraswati is a beautiful and serene ragam (musical scale) in Carnatic music, which is the classical music tradition of South India. Named after Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, and arts, this ragam is known for its soothing and melodious quality.

Structure of Saraswati Ragam

Saraswati is an audava-shadava ragam, meaning it has five notes in the ascending scale (arohana) and six notes in the descending scale (avarohana).

Arohana (Ascending Scale):

S R2 M1 P D2 S

• S: Shadjam
• R2: Chatusruti Rishabham
• M1: Suddha Madhyamam
• P: Panchamam
• D2: Chatusruti Dhaivatham
• S: Shadjam (higher octave)

Avarohana (Descending Scale):

S N2 D2 P M1 G2 R2 S

• S: Shadjam (higher octave)
• N2: Kaisiki Nishadham
• D2: Chatusruti Dhaivatham
• P: Panchamam
• M1: Suddha Madhyamam
• G2: Sadharana Gandharam
• R2: Chatusruti Rishabham
• S: Shadjam

Characteristics

• Janya Ragam: Saraswati is derived from the 64th Melakarta ragam Vachaspati.
• Vakra Prayoga: The descending scale has a vakra (zigzag) structure due to the inclusion of G2 (Gandharam) and N2 (Nishadham).

Popular Compositions in Saraswati Ragam

Saraswati ragam has been used in several classical compositions. Some well-known kritis include:

1. "Saraswati Namostute" by G.N. Balasubramaniam
2. "Anuraga Manjari" by Koteeswara Iyer
3. "Neeye Tunai" by Papanasam Sivan

Mood and Usage

Saraswati ragam evokes a sense of devotion, tranquility, and grace. It is often performed during concerts to create a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

By exploring Saraswati ragam, listeners and performers can appreciate the depth and elegance of Carnatic music, contributing to its rich tradition and cultural heritage.