Raga
/ˈrɑːɡə/noun
A melodic framework in Indian classical music, traditionally used for improvisation and composition.
Did you know?In Sanskrit, raga is tied to the idea of 'color' or 'passion,' and Indian musical theory treats each raga as a living emotional force with specific times and atmospheres.
Etymological Timeline
Sanskrit
Skt
राग (rāga)
“Color, tint, passion, desire; later, a melodic mode or musical framework”
Classical Sanskrit / Early Indian musical theory
Skt
rāga
“A melodic type associated with particular emotional and aesthetic effects”
Medieval Indo-Aryan
IA
rāga
“A fixed melodic pattern in developing Indian classical music traditions”
Modern English
English
raga
“A melodic framework in Indian classical music”