Shankarabharanam: The Jewel of Carnatic Music
Shankarabharanam is one of the most revered and foundational ragas in Carnatic music. Known for its grandeur and versatility, it has been a favorite among composers and performers for centuries. Let’s explore the significance, structure, compositions, and impact of this majestic raga.
Significance and Origin
Shankarabharanam is a melakarta raga, meaning it is a parent scale from which many other ragas are derived. It is the 29th melakarta in the 72-melakarta system. The name “Shankarabharanam” translates to “the ornament of Lord Shiva,” signifying its divine and auspicious nature.
Arohanam and Avarohanam
The structure of Shankarabharanam follows the sampoorna (complete) scale, meaning it consists of all seven swaras in both ascending and descending order:
Arohanam (Ascending Scale): S R2 G3 M1 P D2 N3 S
Avarohanam (Descending Scale): S N3 D2 P M1 G3 R2 S
Here, the swaras used are:
R2 – Chatusruti Rishabham
G3 – Antara Gandharam
M1 – Shuddha Madhyamam
D2 – Chatusruti Dhaivatam
N3 – Kakali Nishadam
This structure is identical to the major scale (Ionian mode) in Western music, which contributes to its universal appeal.
Emotional Essence and Aesthetic Appeal
Shankarabharanam is known for evoking a sense of joy, devotion, and grandeur. Unlike ragas that emphasize melancholy or deep introspection, Shankarabharanam conveys a majestic, uplifting, and expansive mood. This makes it suitable for a wide range of compositions, from varnams and kritis to lighter forms like javalis and film songs.
Famous Compositions
Many legendary composers have created masterpieces in this raga. Some of the most renowned compositions include:
Swara Raga Sudha – Saint Tyagaraja
Enduku Peddala – Saint Tyagaraja
Sri Kamalamba– Muthuswami Dikshitar
Devi Minanetri – Shyama Shastri
Sarojadala netri – Shyama Shastri
In Hindustani music, its equivalent is Bilawal, which is also considered a fundamental raga.
Shankarabharanam in Film Music
Due to its rich and appealing structure, Shankarabharanam has been widely used in Indian film music. Some iconic songs inspired by this raga include:
“Adho Andha Paravai Pola” – From the movie Aayirathil Oruvan
“Thene Thenpaandi” – From the movie Udaya Geetham
“Nilaave Vaa” – From the movie Mouna Ragam
“Andru Vandhadhum” – From the movie Periya Idathu Penn
“Pudhu Maapilaiku” – From the movie Apporva Sagodharargal
“Unnodu Vaazhadha” – From the movie Amarkalam
Derivatives and Janya Ragas
Several popular janya ragas (derived ragas) originate from Shankarabharanam. Some well-known examples are:
Hamsadhwani – A bright and auspicious raga often used in invocatory pieces
Arabhi – An energetic raga
Kedaram – A meditative and soothing raga
Why Learn Shankarabharanam?
For students of Carnatic music, Shankarabharanam serves as a fundamental raga for training in swara exercises, kalpana swaras, and manodharma (improvisation). Since it aligns with the major scale in Western music, it also provides a bridge for understanding both Indian and Western classical music.
Shankarabharanam is truly a timeless raga that continues to captivate musicians and audiences alike. Its grandeur, versatility, and universal appeal make it one of the most beloved ragas in Carnatic music. Exploring the depths of Shankarabharanam is an enriching journey into the soul of classical music.
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