Question

Write the Lakshana of raga Bhairavi.

Hint:

Bhairavi is a bhashanga raga rich in gamakas, widely used in classical compositions, especially for devotional and emotive themes.

Answer 1

Raga Bhairavi, a highly regarded and auspicious raga in Carnatic music, is a Bhashanga raga. It originates from Natabhairavi, the 20th Melakarta raga. Raga Bhairavi Characteristics:

Ascending Scale (Arohanam): S R2 G2 M1 P D2 S
Descending Scale (Avarohanam): S N2 D1 P M1 G2 R2 S
Derivative Status: A Janya Raga of Natabhairavi, incorporating foreign notes such as Chatusruti Dhaivata (D2) and Kaishiki Nishada (N2).
Classification: Designated as a Bhashanga raga due to its inclusion of foreign notes.
Ornamentation (Gamakas): Characterized by abundant gamakas, frequently employed in padams, varnams, and kritis.
Prominent Composers: Composers like Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri have extensively utilized Raga Bhairavi, valuing its profound expressiveness. Associated Moods: This raga evokes feelings of devotion (bhakti), compassion/sorrow (karuna), and magnificence.