A Complete Compendium of Common and Rare Ragas | Asurer Surlokjatra Series

Indian Classical Music is an unfathomable ocean, where every wave conceals a unique Raga. These Ragas are not merely a collection of notes; rather, each possesses a distinct personality, a specific emotion, and is a custodian of a particular time. In this instalment of the “Asurer Surlokjatra” series, I have begun the task of archiving these Ragas. I am unsure how far this journey will take me, but let us make a beginning. If you notice any Raga I have overlooked, please remind me in the comments, and I shall incorporate them.

Comprehensive List of Common and Rare Ragas

(Note: Notations use S=Sa, r=Re komal, R=Re, g=Ga komal, G=Ga, m=Ma, M=Ma teevra, P=Pa, d=Dha komal, D=Dha, n=Ni komal, N=Ni)

A

Raga Name	Arohana (Ascent)	Avarohana (Descent)
Agni-Lalit	S r G M m G r S	S r G M m G r S (Vakra)
Aghori	S r G M P d S’	S’ d P M G r S
Anga-Bhairav	S r G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G r S
Achob	S R G P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Achyut-Bilaval	S R G m P D S’	S’ D P m G R S
Ajad	S R G m P D S’	S’ D P m G R S
Ajay	S R G m P D S’	S’ D P m G R S
Ajay Dhanyashri	S g m P n S’	S’ n P m g S
Ajay Ranjani	S R G m P n S’	S’ n P m G R S
Ajay Lalit	S r G m M m G r S	S r G m M m G r S (Vakra)
Ajay-Kauns	S g m P n S’	S’ n P m g S
Anjani	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Anjani Kalyan	S R G M P D N S’	S’ N D P M G R S
Anjani Todi	S r g m P D N S’	S’ N D P m g r S
Anjani-Bilaval	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Atal	S R G m P D S’	S’ D P m G R S
Atul	S G m P D S’	S’ D P m G S
Atul Ranjani	S G m P N S’	S’ N P m G S
Atul-Todi	S r g m P d S’	S’ d P m g r S
Aditi	S R G P D S’	S’ D P G R S
Adbhut Kalyan	S R G P D S’	S’ D P G R S
Adbhut Ranjani	S r g m P n S’	S’ n P m g r S
Apurva Kalyan	S R G P D S’	S’ D P G R S
Amar Kalyan	S R G M P D S’	S’ D P M G R S
Amar Kanada	S R g m P D n S’	S’ n D P m g R S
Amal Kanti	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Amrit Kalyan	S R G M P D S’	S’ D P M G R S
Amrit Dhanyashri	S g m P n S’	S’ n P m g S
Amrit Ranjani	S r G M P N S’	S’ N P M G r S
Amrit Sarang	S R m P N S’	S’ N P m R S
Amritavarshini	S G M P N S’	S’ N P M G S
Ambari	S G m P D S’	S’ D P m G S
Ambari-Bilaval	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Ambika	S G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G S
Ambika Bhairav	S G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G r S
Ambika-Todi	S r g M P d N S’	S’ N d P M g r S

Ari	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Arun Kaiso	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Arun Kanti	S R G M P D S’	S’ D P M G R S
Arun Bhairav	S r G m P D n S’	S’ n D P m G r S
Arun Malhar	S R m P d n S’	S’ n d P m P G m R S
Arun Malkauns	S g m d n S’	S’ n d m g S
Arun Ranjani	S r G m P D S’	S’ D P m G r S
Arun-Kalyan	S R G M P D N S’	S’ N D P M G R S
Alhaiya	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Alhaiya Bilawal	S R G m G P D N S’	S’ N D P D n D P m G m R S
Ahi Bhairav	S r G m P D S’	S’ D P m G r S
Ahi-Lalit	S r G m M m G r S	S r G m M m G r S
Ahir Lalit	S r G m M m G r S	S r G m M m G r S
Ahiri Todi	S r g M P d n S’	S’ n d P M g r S
Akashi	S G m P N S’	S’ N P m G S
Adana	S R m P d n S’	S’ n d P m P g R S
Adana Bahar	S R m P d n S’, m P n D N S’	S’ n d P m P g R S
Adana Malkauns	S g m d n S’	S’ n d m g S
Adana Malhar	S R m P n D N S’	S’ n d P, m P g R S
Adana-Kanada	S R m P d n S’	S’ n d P m P g R S
Adambari Kanada	S R g m P D n S’	S’ n D P m g R S
Adambari Kedar	S m, m P D N S’	S’ N D P, m P G m R S
Aditya	S R G P D N S’	S’ N D P G R S
Anand Kauns	S g m P n S’	S’ n P m g S
Ananda Bhairav	S G m P N D N S’	S’ N D P m G r S
Anand Malkauns	S g m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g S
Anand Ranjani	S G m P N S’	S’ N P m G S
Anand Leela	S G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G S
Anandi (Nand)	S G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Andolika	S R m P n S’	S’ n D m R S
Abheri	S g m P n S’	S’ n d P m g S
Abheri Kanada	S g m P n S’	S’ n d P m g R S
Abhogi	S R g m D S’	S’ D m g R S
Abhogi Kanada	S R g m D n S’	S’ n D m g R S
Abhogi Dagar	S R g m D S’	S’ D m g R S (Dhrupad Chalan)
Abhogi Malkauns	S g m d n S’	S’ n d m g S
Arabi	S R m P D S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Asa Bhairav	S R m P D S’	S’ n D P m G r S
Asa	S R m P D S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Asa-Asavari	S R m P d S’	S’ n d P m g R S
Asa-Asavari-Todi	S r g m P d S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Asa-Kafi	S R m P D S’	S’ n D P m g R S
Asa-Gandhari	S R m P d S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Asa-Desh	S R m P D S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Asa-Deshkar	S R G P D S’	S’ D P G R S
Asavari	S R m P d S’	S’ n d P m g R S
Asavari Thaat	S R m P d S’	S’ n d P m g R S
Asavari Todi	S r g m P d S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Asavari Mand	S R m P d S’	S’ d P m g R S (Vakra)
Asavari Sarang	S R m P d n S’	S’ n P m g R S
Asavari-Bahar	S R m P d S’, m P n D N S’	S’ n d P m P g R S
Asa-Bilaval	S R G m P D N S’	S’ N D P m G R S
Asa-Bhairav-Bahar	S R m P D n S’	S’ n D P m G r S
Asa-Bhairavi	S R m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Ahir Kanada	S R m P D n S’	S’ n D P m P g R S
Ahir Todi	S r g m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Ahir Bhairav	S r G m P D n S’	S’ n D P m G r S
Ahir Lalit	S r G m M m G r S	S r G m M m G r S (Vakra)
Ahiri	S r g m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Ahiri Kafi	S r g m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g r S
Ahiri Bhairav	S r G m P D n S’	S’ n D P m G r S
Ahiri Bhairavi	S r g m P d n S’	S’ n d P m g r S

 

B

Badhan	A rare and traditional raga, often mentioned in medieval scriptures.
Barmasa Sarang	(Also known as Badhans Sarang) A seasonal variation of the Sarang family.
Bagkauns	A contemporary blend of Raga Bageshree and Raga Malkauns.
Bageshree	A deeply romantic and melancholic late-night raga of the Kafi Thaat.
Bageshree Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging the spring joy of Bahar with Bageshree.
Bageshree Kanada	A sophisticated blend of Bageshree and the Kanada melodic structure.
Bageshree Kauns	A hybrid raga merging the scales of Bageshree and Malkauns.
Bahaduri Todi	A complex and majestic morning raga belonging to the Todi family.
Bahar	The quintessential raga of the spring season (Basant), known for its playful nature.
Bahari Kedar	A variation of Raga Kedar that incorporates the characteristic phrases of Bahar.
Bairagi	A serene, morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, often used for meditation.
Bairagi Bhairav	A specific interpretation of Bairagi focusing heavily on the Bhairav ‘ang’.
Bairagi Todi	A rare blend of the ascetic mood of Bairagi with the Todi scale.
Bakul Bhairav	A floral-named variation of Bhairav, often sung in the early morning.
Bakulabharanam	A raga borrowed from the Carnatic system (7th Melakarta).
Ban	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga in ancient classification systems.
Bangal	An ancient raga, often linked to the Bhairav family in the Ragamala tradition.
Bangal Bhairav	A powerful morning raga reflecting the regional Bangal (Bengal) style.
Bangal Bilawal	A Bilawal-ang raga with characteristic phrases of the Bangal tradition.
Bangali	An ancient ragini, historically associated with the Bengal region.
Barari (Marwa ang)	A variety of Barari that uses the Marwa Thaat structure.
Barari (Poorvi ang)	A variety of Barari that uses the Poorvi Thaat structure.
Barathi Todi	A rare melodic variation of the Todi family.
Barhams Sarang	A variation of the midday Sarang family, noted for its distinct tonal phrasing.
Barahansika	A rare and ancient ragini mentioned in traditional manuscripts.
Barwa	A popular raga of the Kafi Thaat, often used for semi-classical compositions.
Basant	A celebratory raga performed during the spring festival of Holi.
Basant Bahar	A highly popular compound raga merging Basant and Bahar.
Basant Pancham	A specific rendition of Basant performed during the spring festival (Panchami).
Basant Hindol	A regal blend of two powerful ragas: Basant and Hindol.
Basant Kedar	A sophisticated late-night compound raga.
Basant Mukhari	A beautiful raga that uses the Bhairav scale but maintains a unique melodic flow.
Basanti	A light, spring-themed ragini.
Basanti Kanada	A blend of the Basanti melody with the Kanada structure.
Basanti Kauns	A hybrid raga merging Basanti with the Malkauns scale.
Bayati	A rare raga, occasionally linked to Middle Eastern melodic influences.

Bhairav	The primordial morning raga; the “Lord” of the Bhairav Thaat. It is solemn, majestic, and deeply devotional.
Bihad	A rare and ancient raga, often preserved in the older traditions of the Gwalior Gharana.
Bihad Bhairav	A majestic blend of the Bihad structure with the foundational Bhairav melody.
Bhairav Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging the morning gravity of Bhairav with the spring joy of Bahar.
Bhairav Bhatiyar	A complex dawn raga blending the scales of Bhairav and Bhatiyar.
Bhairavi	Perhaps the most versatile raga; technically a morning raga, but traditionally performed to conclude any concert.
Bhankhar	A rare and intricate dawn raga belonging to the Marwa Thaat.
Bhankhari	A feminine or melodic variation of the Bhankhar structure.
Bhaskali	An ancient and rare raga, occasionally mentioned in the Ragamala paintings.
Bhaskar	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga, symbolizing the sun.
Bhatiyar (Marwa ang)	A variation of Bhatiyar that draws its structure from the Marwa Thaat.
Bhatiyar (Poorvi ang)	A variation of Bhatiyar that draws its structure from the Poorvi Thaat.
Bhatiyari	A folk-influenced morning ragini, often associated with the songs of boatmen.
Bhatiyari Bhairav	A hybrid morning raga merging Bhatiyari with the Bhairav scale.
Bhatiyari Gauri	A rare combination of Bhatiyari with the meditative Raga Gauri.
Bhavmat	A rare raga known for its emotional depth (Bhav).
Bhavmat Bhairav	A specific interpretation of Bhairav that emphasises a particular emotional “opinion” or mood.
Bhav Kauns	A modern variation of the Kauns family, focusing on intense emotional expression.
Bhavsakh	An ancient and rare raga, often found in traditional Dhrupad repertoires.
Bhavsakh Kanada	A blend of the Bhavsakh melody with the characteristic Kanada structure.
Bhavna Pancham	A rare auxiliary raga (Upraraga) focusing on the fifth note (Pancham).
Bhavani	A bright and heroic raga dedicated to the Goddess Bhavani.
Bhavani Bahar	A compound raga merging Bhavani with the seasonal Bahar.
Bhilalu	A rare and obscure raga, likely of regional or folk origin.
Bhim	A raga of the Kafi Thaat, sometimes considered a precursor to Bhimpalasi.
Bhimsen	A contemporary raga, often associated with or dedicated to Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.
Bhimpalasi	A magnificent late-afternoon raga; it is poignant, deep, and highly popular.
Bhinna Bhairav	A “distinct” or “separated” variation of Bhairav that uses a unique note set.
Bhinna Kauns	A pentatonic raga of the Kauns family, distinct from Malkauns.
Bhinna Lalat	A rare dawn raga merging the Bhinna and Lalat melodic structures.
Bhinna Rageshree	A sophisticated variation of Raga Rageshree.
Bhinna Shadja	(Also known as Kaushik Dhwani) A beautiful, pentatonic raga that omits Re and Pa.

 

Bhukosh	A rare raga that blends the characteristics of Raga Bhupali and Raga Malkauns.
Bhora	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga in ancient musical systems.
Bhup / Bhupali	A majestic, pentatonic evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat. It is serene, meditative, and one of the most fundamental ragas.
Bhupal (Bhairav Thaat)	A morning raga with the same scale as Bhupali but using the flat Re ($r$) and flat Dha ($d$).
Bhupal Todi	A hauntingly beautiful morning raga of the Todi family, performed in a pentatonic scale.
Bhupeshwari	A modern and deeply emotive raga that adds a flat Dha ($d$) to the Bhupali scale.
Bhup Bilawal	A morning raga merging the pentatonic structure of Bhup with the Bilawal Thaat.
Bhup Kalyan	Often used as another name for Shuddha Kalyan, blending Bhup and Yaman.
Bhup Nat	A compound raga merging the structures of Bhupali and Raga Nat.
Bhupawali	A rare melodic variation of the Bhupali family.
Bhupkali	A hybrid raga combining the essence of Bhupali and Raga Ramkali.
Bhup-Lai	An obscure variation of Bhupali found in specific gharana traditions.
Bibhas (Marwa ang)	A powerful morning raga of the Marwa Thaat, evokeing a sense of starkness and solitude.
Bibhas (Poorvi ang)	A morning raga of the Poorvi Thaat, noted for its devotional depth.
Bibhas (Bhairav ang)	A variation of Bibhas that aligns more closely with the Bhairav family.
Bibhas (Deshkar ang)	A bright, morning variation related to Raga Deshkar.
Bibhas Parvati	A rare and spiritual raga dedicated to the Goddess Parvati.
Bihag	A celebrated late-night raga of the Bilawal Thaat. It is romantic, playful, and deeply expressive.
Bihag Malva	A compound raga blending Bihag with the Malva regional style.
Bihag Nat	A combination of the Bihag scale with the melodic phrasing of Raga Nat.
Bihag Pat	A rare hybrid raga merging Bihag and Raga Patdeep.
Bihag Sabani	An archaic and rare variation of the Bihag family.
Bihagda	A sophisticated version of Bihag that incorporates both varieties of Nishad ($n$ and $N$).
Bihagora	A rare and ancient raga, often preserved in the Haveli Sangeet tradition.
Bihagoda Malav	A complex regional variation of the Bihagoda structure.
Bihari	A sweet, light-classical raga often used for Thumri and Dadra compositions.
Bilaskhani Todi	A masterpiece created by Bilas Khan (son of Tansen); a deeply melancholic morning raga.
Bilawal	The “Shuddha” (natural) scale of Hindustani music, similar to the Western Major scale.
Bilawal Dakhani	A variation of Bilawal incorporating South Indian (Deccani) influences.
Bilawal Gond	A rare blend of Bilawal with the folk-influenced Raga Gond.
Bilawal Kukubh	A complex variation merging Bilawal with Raga Kukubh.
Bilawal Malhar	A monsoon hybrid combining Gaur Malhar and Alhaiya Bilawal.
Bilawal Nat	A bright morning raga merging Bilawal and Raga Nat.
Bilawal Shukla	A pure and “white” (Shukla) version of Bilawal, avoiding accidental notes.
Bilawali	An ancient ragini, historically viewed as the feminine counterpart to Bilawal.
Bilahari	A raga borrowed from the Carnatic tradition, often performed in a bright, festive mood.
Binod	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga, meaning “pleasure” or “joy”.
Virdhar	An ancient and heroic Putra raga found in the Ragamala texts.
Birju Ki Malhar	A variation of Malhar attributed to or named after a legendary musician.
Vrindavani Sarang	A very popular midday raga of the Kafi Thaat, evoking the atmosphere of Vrindavan.

 

The “C” (Ch) Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Chaiti	A seasonal raga associated with the month of Chait (Spring), often used in semi-classical Thumri.
Chaiti Barwa	A variation of Raga Barwa infused with the seasonal melodies of Chaiti.
Chaiti Bhup	A rare hybrid merging the structure of Bhupali with the Chaiti folk-ang.
Chakradhar	A rare and complex raga, named after the “discus-bearer” (Lord Vishnu).
Chakravakam	A raga borrowed from the Carnatic system (16th Melakarta), equivalent to Ahir Bhairav.
Chalanat	An ancient and rare raga, often found in the Dhrupad tradition.
Champak Bilawal	A bright morning raga belonging to the Bilawal family.
Champakali	A delicate evening raga, noted for its floral and sweet melodic character.
Chanchalsas Malhar	A rare monsoon raga with “restless” or “fickle” (Chanchal) movements.
Chandni Bihag	A beautiful late-night raga depicting “moonlight” (Chandni) through the Bihag scale.
Chandni Kalyan	A serene variation of the Kalyan family, performed in the late evening.
Chandni Kedar	A majestic blend of Raga Kedar with moonlight-themed melodic phrases.
Chandra Bhairav	A moonlit morning raga blending the scales of Chandrakauns and Bhairav.
Chandra Bhankar	A rare and intricate dawn raga merging Chandrakauns and Bhankar.
Chandra Kalyan	A hybrid raga merging the evening gravity of Kalyan with Chandrakauns.
Chandradhwani	A modern raga known for its “lunar resonance,” created for instrumental music.
Chandrakauns	A profound, late-night pentatonic raga. There are two main versions: the Agra Gharana style and the Bageshree-ang style.
Chandramouli	A rare raga dedicated to Lord Shiva, the “moon-crested” deity.
Chandranandan	A legendary contemporary raga created by Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, merging four night ragas.
Chandraprabha	A bright and luminous raga named after “moonbeams.”
Charju Ki Malhar	A historical monsoon raga attributed to a legendary musician named Charju.
Charukauns	A modern blend of Raga Charukeshi and Raga Malkauns.
Charukeshi	A highly popular raga borrowed from the Carnatic system; it is deeply emotive and versatile.
Chhaya	A rare and ancient raga that uses “shadowy” (Chhaya) notes from other ragas.
Chhaya Bihag	A sophisticated blend of Raga Chhaya and Raga Bihag.
Chhayanat	A magnificent and heroic evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat.

The “D” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Dagori	An archaic and rare raga, likely of regional or folk origin.
Dakshin Gurjari	A variation of Raga Gurjari Todi with Southern (Dakshin) influences.
Darbari Kanada	One of the most majestic ragas in the world; created by Tansen for Emperor Akbar’s court. It is grave, deep, and regal.
Darbari Todi	A rare morning variation merging the Darbari structure with the Todi scale.
Dayavati	A modern raga designed to evoke a sense of “compassion” (Daya).
Deepak	A legendary raga associated with fire. It is rarely performed today due to the myths surrounding its power.
Deepavali	A festive raga created to celebrate the “festival of lights.”
Desh	A highly popular and patriotic raga of the Khamaj Thaat. It is romantic and evokes the spirit of the Indian landscape.
Desh Malhar	A magnificent monsoon raga merging Desh and Malhar.
Deshkar	A bright morning raga of the Bilawal Thaat, often confused with Bhupali but with a different emphasis.
Dev Gandhar	A complex morning raga with multiple variations (Jaunpuri-ang, Jogiya-ang, and Asavari-ang).
Devagiri Bilawal	A majestic morning raga belonging to the Bilawal family.
Dhanashree	A very old and auspicious raga family with variations in Kafi, Bhairavi, and Multani scales.
Dhani	A sweet, pentatonic raga of the Kafi Thaat, often used for light-classical songs.
Durga	A powerful and pure pentatonic raga of the Bilawal Thaat, named after the Goddess Durga.
Dwijavanti	A complex and regal raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often associated with the Jaijaiwanti family.

The “E” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Enayetkhani Kanada	A majestic raga created by the legendary Sitar maestro Ustad Vilayat Khan, named after his father, Ustad Enayet Khan.
Erukala Kambhoji	A rare raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, possessing a folk-like, rustic charm.

The “G” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Gagan Vihang	A modern, “ethereal” raga named after the bird of the sky (Gagan).
Gajadhar	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga, associated with the elephant-headed deity Ganesha.
Gandhari	A deeply devotional raga family with three distinct variations (Gandhari 1, 2, and 3), primarily of the Asavari Thaat.
Gandhari Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging Gandhari with the spring joy of Bahar.
Gandhi Malhar	A contemporary monsoon raga created by Pandit Kumar Gandharva as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
Gara	A highly popular, light-classical raga of the Kafi Thaat, perfect for Thumri and Dadra.
Gara Bageshree	A sophisticated blend of Raga Gara and Raga Bageshree.
Gara Kanada	A hybrid raga merging the playful Gara with the profound Kanada structure.
Gaud Malhar	One of the most famous monsoon ragas; it is bright, rhythmic, and evokes the scent of rain-soaked earth.
Gaud Sarang	A complex and zig-zag (Vakra) midday raga of the Kalyan Thaat, known for its intellectual depth.
Gauri	A meditative and ancient raga family with variations in Bhairav, Marwa, and Poorvi Thaats.
Girija	A rare set of pentatonic (Audav) ragas (Girija Bhairav, Girija Kauns) dedicated to the Goddess Parvati.
Gopika Basant	A rare, playful variation of the spring Raga Basant.
Gorakh Kalyan	A hauntingly beautiful, modern raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often used for flute and vocal music.
Gujari Todi	A queen of the morning ragas; it is a variation of Todi that omits the fifth note (Pancham), creating a mood of intense longing.
Gunakali	A serene, pentatonic morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, deeply spiritual and calm.
Gurjari	An ancient and celebrated ragini, the precursor to modern Gujari Todi.

The “H” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Hamir	A bright, heroic, and vigorous evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat.
Hamir Bahar	A compound raga merging the strength of Hamir with the sweetness of Bahar.
Hamsadhwani	A brilliant, pentatonic raga borrowed from the Carnatic system. It is auspicious, bright, and often used to open concerts.
Hansa Kalyan	A majestic blend of Raga Hamsadhwani and Raga Yaman Kalyan.
Hansanarayani	A modern raga of the Poorvi Thaat, evoking a sunset mood.
Hari Bhairav	A contemporary raga created by Pandit Milind Date as a tribute to his guru, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia.
Hemant	A popular late-night raga created by Baba Allauddin Khan, known for its winter-evening serenity.
Hemavati	A powerful raga borrowed from the South Indian system, increasingly popular in North Indian classical music.
Hindol	One of the oldest and most regal ragas; a pentatonic raga of the Kalyan Thaat, performed at dawn during the spring.
Hindol Bahar	A festive compound raga merging the dawn mood of Hindol with the spring-themed Bahar.
Hussaini Kanada	A heroic and ancient raga of the Kanada family, often associated with historical Islamic traditions.
Hussaini Bhairavi	A rare variation of Bhairavi with the distinctive “Hussaini” melodic touch.

 

The “I / Y” Family

(Note: In English, “Iman” and “Yaman” are used interchangeably; I have listed them under the standard “Y” for alphabetical clarity in the British version.)

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Imrat Kauns	A contemporary raga created by the Sitar and Surbahar maestro Ustad Imrat Khan.
Inayatkhani Kanada	(Re-listed) A majestic raga of the Kanada family associated with the Etawah Gharana.
Indumati	A rare and delicate raga, often found in traditional songbooks (Bandish collections).
Indrasan	An ancient and regal raga, named after the “Throne of Indra.”
Yaman (Iman)	The “King” of evening ragas. It is the first raga taught in the Kalyan Thaat and is synonymous with peace and evening light.
Yaman Kalyan	A variation of Yaman that subtly incorporates the natural Madhyam ($m$) alongside the sharp Madhyam ($M$).

The “J” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Jaijaiwanti	A magnificent and complex raga of the Khamaj Thaat. It is romantic, majestic, and often associated with the late-night hours.
Jaijaiwanti Kanada	A sophisticated compound raga merging Jaijaiwanti with the Kanada melodic structure.
Jait (Jayant)	A morning raga of the Marwa Thaat, known for its austere and meditative quality.
Jaitashree	A deeply devotional evening raga of the Poorvi Thaat, often used in Haveli Sangeet.
Jait Kalyan	A rare blend of the Jait structure with the scales of Kalyan.
Jalal	A rare raga, occasionally linked to Sufi musical traditions.
Jaladhar Desh	A monsoon-themed variation of Raga Desh, evoking the “bearer of water” (clouds).
Jaladhar Kedar	A rare variation of Raga Kedar with a focus on monsoon-like melodic phrases.
Janasammohini	A popular, pentatonic raga of the Kalyan Thaat, borrowed from the Carnatic tradition.
Jaunpuri	A brilliant morning raga of the Asavari Thaat, known for its bold and celebratory character.
Jaunpuri Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging the structure of Jaunpuri with the spring joy of Bahar.
Jayant Malhar	A hybrid monsoon raga combining the melodies of Jaijaiwanti and Malhar.
Jhinjhoti	A highly popular, melodic raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often used for light-classical Thumri and instrumental solos.
Jilla / Zila	A light, melodic raga (Kafi Thaat) often used in the concluding parts of a concert.
Jog	A hauntingly beautiful late-night raga that uses both varieties of Gandhar ($g$ and $G$).
Jog Kauns	A modern masterpiece created by Jagannathbuwa Purohit, merging Raga Jog and Raga Chandrakauns.
Jogiya	A poignant, devotional morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, often associated with the mood of renunciation.

The “K” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Kafi	The foundational raga of the Kafi Thaat. It is a late-night raga, synonymous with the Holi festival and romantic folk traditions.
Kafi Bahar	A seasonal blend of Raga Kafi and Raga Bahar.
Kafi Kanada	A compound raga merging the Kafi scale with the characteristic Kanada ang.
Kalashree	A modern raga created by Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, blending Raga Kalavati and Raga Rageshree.
Kalavati	A popular evening raga of the Khamaj Thaat, known for its bright and enchanting pentatonic scale.
Kalingada	A morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, often used in devotional and folk music.
Kalyan	The parent scale (Thaat) of many evening ragas, characterized by the sharp Madhyam ($M$).
Kamod	A traditional and heroic evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat, known for its intricate and graceful movements.
Kanada	A massive family of deep, late-night ragas characterized by the signature phrase $g\ M\ R\ S$ (with a heavy oscillate on $g$).
Karnati	A raga reflecting the “Karnatak” (South Indian) style of melodic phrasing.
Kaushi Kanada	A profound compound raga merging Raga Malkauns with the Kanada structure.
Kedar	A majestic and auspicious late-night raga of the Kalyan Thaat, named after Lord Shiva.
Khamaj	A fundamental raga of the Khamaj Thaat, widely used for romantic Thumri and Dadra compositions.
Kirwani	A hauntingly beautiful raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, equivalent to the Harmonic Minor scale in Western music.

 

The “K” Family (Continued)

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Khat	A complex and archaic raga believed to be a mixture of six (Shat) different ragas.
Khem Kalyan	A celebratory evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat, combining Raga Khem and Raga Yaman.
Khokar	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga in medieval musical treatises.
Kirwani	(Re-listed) A hauntingly beautiful raga borrowed from the South Indian system, equivalent to the Harmonic Minor scale.
Kohari Kalyan	A rare and traditional variation of the Kalyan family.
Komal Rishabh Asavari	The version of Asavari that uses the flat second (r), synonymous with Raga Asavari Todi.
Kukubh	An ancient morning raga of the Bilawal Thaat, often depicted in Ragamala paintings as a heroine.
Kuntal	Historically classified as a Putra (son) raga, symbolizing “locks of hair.”
Kush	An ancient raga named after one of the sons of Lord Rama.
Kusum	A delicate, “floral” raga historically categorized as a Putra raga.

The “L” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Lachari Kanada	A rare and sophisticated variation of the Kanada family, noted for its “helpless” or pleading melodic curves.
Lajvanti	A modern, melodic raga named after the “touch-me-not” plant, reflecting a shy or delicate mood.
Lalit	A monumental and unique dawn raga. It uses both the natural (m) and sharp (M) varieties of the fourth note, creating a mood of profound spiritual longing.
Lalit Bhatiyar	A complex dawn raga merging the structures of Lalit and Bhatiyar.
Lalit Pancham	A variation of Lalit that places significant emphasis on the fifth note (Pancham).
Lalita Gauri	A meditative morning raga blending the Lalit structure with the Gauri scale.
Lanka Dahan Sarang	A powerful midday raga from the Sarang family, historically linked to the “burning of Lanka” epic.
Lankeshree	A majestic and rare late-night raga, sometimes associated with the Khamaj or Bilawal Thaat.

The “M” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Madhumad Sarang	A bright and popular midday raga. It is pentatonic and avoids the notes Ga and Dha, creating a clear, sunny atmosphere.
Madhuvanti	A highly popular and romantic afternoon raga of the Todi Thaat, known for its sweet and poignant character.
Madhu Kauns	A modern hybrid merging the sweetness of Madhuvanti with the scale of Malkauns.
Madhyamavati	A raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, similar to Madhumad Sarang.
Malgunji	A sophisticated and romantic night raga that blends the characteristics of Bageshree and Rageshree.
Malhar	The legendary family of monsoon ragas. It is believed that a true performance of Malhar can summon the rains.
Mali Gaura	A rare and complex evening raga of the Marwa Thaat.
Malkauns	One of the oldest and most profound ragas. It is pentatonic, grave, and performed in the dead of night.
Maluha Bihag	A majestic and rare variation of Bihag, often found in the Agra Gharana repertoire.
Mand	A delightful, folk-based raga from Rajasthan, widely used for light-classical songs and Gazals.
Manj Khamaj	A beautiful variation of Khamaj created by Baba Allauddin Khan.
Marwa	A stark and haunting evening raga that defines the Marwa Thaat. It omits the Pancham and uses a flat Re ($r$) and sharp Ma ($M$), evoking a sense of deep anxiety or transition.
Megh / Megh Malhar	A powerful, thunderous monsoon raga, traditionally sung to represent the arrival of heavy clouds.
Mian Ki Malhar	The most celebrated monsoon raga, created by Mian Tansen. It is deep, majestic, and uses a characteristic oscillation on the flat Ga ($g$).
Multani	A monumental afternoon raga of the Todi Thaat. It is heat-heavy, intense, and deeply devotional.

 

 

The “N” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Nadnamakriya	A rare raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, often used for devotional chants.
Nagadhwani Kanada	A majestic variation of the Kanada family, noted for its “serpentine” (Naga) melodic resonance.
Nand	(Also known as Anandi) A sophisticated and beautiful evening raga of the Kalyan Thaat, known for its complex, zig-zag (Vakra) movements.
Nanak Malhar	A monsoon raga traditionally associated with the hymns (Shabads) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Narayani	A bright and auspicious raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often used for celebratory compositions.
Nat	A heroic and ancient raga family. The “Nat-ang” (Nat limb) is often used to create compound ragas.
Nat Bhairav	A very popular morning raga merging the scales of Nat and Bhairav; it is scholarly yet deeply melodic.
Nat Bihag	A compound raga blending the structure of Bihag with the Nat melodic phrasing.
Nat Bilawal	A bright morning raga of the Bilawal family, emphasizing the Nat-ang.
Nat Kedar	A sophisticated late-night raga merging the structures of Kedar and Nat.
Nayana-ranjani	A modern, pleasing raga named for its “eye-delighting” melodic flow.
Nayaki Kanada	A profound late-night raga of the Kanada family, traditionally associated with the legendary “Nayaka” (master) musicians.
Nilambari	A raga borrowed from the South Indian system, often used to depict a peaceful, moonlit night.

The “P” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Pahadi	A light-classical, folk-based raga from the Himalayas. It is incredibly popular for Dhuns, Gazals, and romantic songs.
Palas Kafi	A variation of the Kafi family with specific melodic influences from Raga Palas.
Patdeep	A romantic and poignant afternoon raga of the Kafi Thaat, known for its emotional “pull.”
Patmanjari	An ancient and rare ragini, historically viewed as one of the most sophisticated melodies.
Piloo / Pilu	A highly versatile, light-classical raga of the Kafi Thaat. It is often described as “Mixed Pilu” because it allows for the use of all twelve notes.
Prabhat Bhairav	A majestic raga specifically performed at the break of dawn (Prabhat).
Pratapvarali	A rare and heroic raga, occasionally mentioned in medieval musical texts.
Puriya	A stark and deeply meditative evening raga of the Marwa Thaat. It omits Pancham and focuses on the transition from day to night.
Puriya Dhanashree	A magnificent and highly popular sunset raga of the Poorvi Thaat. It is deeply devotional and serious.
Puriya Kalyan	A majestic compound raga merging the structures of Puriya and Yaman Kalyan.
Poorvi / Purvi	The foundational raga of the Poorvi Thaat. It is a sunset raga (Sandhiprakash), grave and deeply spiritual.

The “R” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Rageshree	A quintessential late-night raga of the Khamaj Thaat. It is romantic, sweet, and avoids the fifth note (Pancham) in many versions.
Rageshree Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging the romance of Rageshree with the spring joy of Bahar.
Raj Kalyan	A rare and regal variation of the Kalyan family.
Ramkali	A celebrated morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, often performed just after sunrise.
Ramdasi Malhar	A beautiful monsoon raga attributed to the legendary saint-musician Ramdas.
Ranjani	A modern, melodic raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, known for its captivating charm.
Rasamanjari	A rare and delicate raga, often linked to the depiction of various “rasas” (emotions) in music.
Rewa	A rare and ancient raga of the Poorvi Thaat, performed in the late afternoon.
Rupa Manjari Malhar	A monsoon raga named for its “beautiful floral” (Rupa Manjari) melodic character.

 

The “S” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Sagar	A rare and expansive raga named after the “ocean” (Sagar).
Sahana	A deeply emotional and romantic night raga of the Kanada family.
Sahana Bahar	A seasonal compound raga merging Sahana with the spring joy of Bahar.
Sarang	A massive family of midday ragas. They are bright, clear, and evoke the heat of the afternoon sun.
Saraswati	A modern and highly popular raga of the Vachaspati scale; it is scholarly and melodic.
Savali	A rare raga created by Ustad Vilayat Khan, known for its shadowy, twilight mood.
Saveri	A poignant morning raga borrowed from the Carnatic system.
Shahana	(Re-listed) A regal variation of the Kanada family, often used in celebratory contexts.
Shankara	A powerful, energetic, and heroic late-night raga of the Bilawal Thaat, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Shankara Bihag	A complex hybrid merging the structures of Shankara and Bihag.
Shivamat Bhairav	A specific variation of Bhairav that incorporates the “Shiva” melodic signature.
Shivaranjani	An incredibly popular, pentatonic raga used for soulful, melancholic, and folk-based melodies.
Shree	One of the most ancient and powerful ragas of the Hindustani system. Performed at sunset, it is grave and deeply mystical.
Shuddha Kalyan	A majestic evening raga that begins with a pentatonic scale and resolves into the full Yaman scale.
Shuddha Sarang	A brilliant midday raga that uses both varieties of Madhyam ($m$ and $M$).
Shyam Kalyan	A beautiful evening raga of the Kalyan family, noted for its dark, “cloud-like” (Shyam) melodic depth.
Sindhu Bhairavi	A light-classical morning raga (often played at the end of concerts) that allows for extensive melodic freedom.
Sohani	A high-pitched, restless, and bright dawn raga of the Marwa Thaat.
Surdasi Malhar	A popular monsoon raga attributed to the blind saint-poet Surdas.

The “T” Family

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Tilak Kamod	A very popular and playful evening raga of the Khamaj Thaat.
Tilak Shyam	A contemporary raga created by Pandit Ravi Shankar, merging Tilak Kamod and Shyam Kalyan.
Tilang	A sweet and melodic raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often used in Thumri and semi-classical music.
Todi	The monarch of morning ragas. It is deeply meditative, melancholic, and technically demanding.

The “U, V, Y, Z” Families

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Uday Ravi	A bright morning raga of the Bilawal Thaat, depicting the “rising sun.”
Vachaspati	A majestic raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, equivalent to the Lydian Dominant scale.
Vardhani	A rare and ancient raga, occasionally used in traditional Bandishes.
Vibhas	(Re-listed) A stark and powerful morning raga of the Marwa or Bhairav families.
Vijayranjani	A modern, celebratory raga named after “victory.”
Yaman	(Re-listed) The quintessential evening raga; the foundation of the Kalyan Thaat.
Zilaf	A rare morning raga of the Bhairav or Asavari Thaat, often found in the Agra Gharana repertoire.
Zila Kafi	A light-classical variation of the Kafi family used for concluding pieces.

 

U

Raga Name	Key Characteristics / Context
Udan	A rare raga family with variations in Kafi (Udan Chandrika) and Khamaj (Udan Kanti) scales.
Udasi	A melancholic and contemplative raga of the Bhairav Thaat, reflecting “detachment” (Udas).
Uday Ravi	A bright morning raga of the Bilawal Thaat, symbolising the “rising sun.”
Uma Tilak	A modern, melodic raga of the Khamaj Thaat, often used in light-classical music.
Ushak	A unique compound raga blending the shades of Sarang, Asavari, and Bhairav.
Uttar Kalyan	A regal evening raga belonging to the Kalyan family.
Utari Basant	A specific variation of Raga Basant performed in the later part of the season.
Vachaspati	A majestic raga borrowed from the Carnatic system, equivalent to the Lydian Dominant scale.
Vadhanas	A rare raga of the Kafi Thaat, occasionally found in the Gwalior Gharana.
Vardhani	A rare and ancient raga, occasionally used in traditional Dhrupad compositions.
Vasant Mukhari	A beautiful raga that uses the Bhairav scale ($r, d$) but maintains the melodic flow of Kafi.
Vibhavari	A pentatonic morning raga of the Bhairav Thaat, synonymous with peace and dawn.
Vihang	An ancient and rare raga, often mentioned in medieval musical treatises.
Vijayranjani	A modern, celebratory raga named after “victory.”
Vikram Bhairav	A powerful and heroic variation of the Bhairav family.
Virat Bhairav	A majestic and “grand” (Virat) rendition of Raga Bhairav.
Viyog Varali	A deeply melancholic raga depicting “separation” (Viyog).
Zilaf	A rare morning raga found in Bhairav or Asavari Thaats; noted for its specific Persian-influenced phrasing.
Zila Kafi	A light-classical variation of the Kafi family, often used to close a performance with a melodic flourish.
Zim Kalyan	A contemporary raga created by Pandit Milind Date.