Raga
Abheri
Thaat
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Vadi
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Samvadi
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Aroha
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Avaroha
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Time
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Pakad
S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Description
Abheri (pronounced ābhēri) is a significant raga in Carnatic music, classified as a Janya raga, which means it is derived from a parent scale. Its parent raga is Kharaharapriya, the 22nd in the 72 Melakarta raga system. Abheri is characterized by its unique structure and emotional depth.
Structure and Characteristics
Type: Abheri is classified as an oudava-sampoorna raga, meaning it has five notes in the ascent and seven in the descent.
Notes (Swaras):
Arohana (Ascending): S G₂ M₁ P N₂ Ṡ
Avarohana (Descending): Ṡ N₂ D₂ P M₁ G₂ R₂ SSwaras: The swaras used in Abheri include Chathusruthi Rishabham, Sadharana Gandharam, Suddha Madhyamam, Chathusruthi Dhaivatham, and Kaisiki Nishadham. It is also considered a Bhashanga raga due to the introduction of Suddha Dhaivatham (D1) in some phrases, which is not part of its parent scale Kharaharapriya12.
Emotional Evocation
Abheri evokes feelings of courage and power, often leaving a lasting positive impact on listeners. It is typically performed during late morning hours13. The raga's soothing quality makes it popular across various genres, including classical music and cinema3.
Similarities and Variants
Abheri has close resemblances to other ragas such as Bhimpalasi in Hindustani music. Musicologists debate whether Abheri and Bhimpalasi are essentially the same due to their similarities13. Additionally, the raga can yield other janya ragas through a technique called Graha bhedam, which involves shifting the tonal center while maintaining relative note frequencies. This process can create variations like Mohanakalyani, Kedaragaula, and Arabhi12.
Notable Compositions
Several compositions are associated with Abheri, including Thyagaraja's "Nagumomu," which reflects deep emotional themes. The raga has also been utilized by composers like Muthuswami Dikshitar and Papanasam Sivan24. The versatility of Abheri allows it to be featured in lighter songs as well as classical pieces.
In summary, Raga Abheri stands out for its emotional resonance and structural beauty within the realm of Carnatic music. Its ability to bridge classical traditions with popular music genres underscores its significance in Indian musical heritage.
Citations:
https://www.musicaloud.com/2013/09/08/identity-of-a-raga-part-6-abheri/
https://www.ragasurabhi.com/carnatic-music/raga/raga--abheri.html