Abheri Ragam

 Abheri Ragam

Arohanam:   S G2 M1 P N2 S
Avarohanam:   S N2 D2 P M1 G2 R2 S

Abheri is a beautiful and popular ragam in Carnatic music known for its pleasing and evocative nature. It is often associated with devotional and romantic compositions.

Characteristics of Abheri Ragam:

• Melakarta Parent: Abheri is a janya ragam derived from the 22nd melakarta ragam, Kharaharapriya.
• Arohanam (Ascending Scale): S G2 M1 P N2 S
  • Notes: Sa, Sadharana Gandharam, Shuddha Madhyamam, Panchamam, Kaisiki Nishadam, Sa
• Avarohanam (Descending Scale): S N2 D2 P M1 G2 R2 S
  • Notes: Sa, Kaisiki Nishadam, Chatusruti Dhaivatham, Panchamam, Shuddha Madhyamam, Sadharana Gandharam, Chatusruti Rishabham, Sa

Important Points:

1. Vakra Prayoga: Abheri features a characteristic zigzag movement (vakra prayoga) in its avarohanam (descending scale), especially noticeable with the presence of Dhaivatham (D2).
2. Bhashanga Raga: It is considered a bhashanga raga because it uses the chatusruti dhaivatham (D2) from outside its parent melakarta, Kharaharapriya.

Mood and Appeal:

• Emotional Tone: Abheri is known for its appealing and soothing quality. It evokes a sense of devotion, romance, and deep emotional connection.
• Usage: This ragam is often used in compositions that are devotional, romantic, or express longing and piety.

Popular Compositions in Abheri:

1. "Nagumomu Ganaleni" by Tyagaraja – A beautiful kriti that brings out the emotive essence of Abheri.
2. "Bhajare Re Manasa" by Mysore Vasudevacharya – Another well-known kriti in Abheri.
3. "Muruga Muruga" by Papanasam Sivan – A popular devotional song.
4. "Vellai Thamarai Poovil" – A Tamil composition by Bharathiar, set to Abheri.

Comparison with Other Ragams:

• Bimplas (Hindustani Equivalent): Abheri has similarities with the Hindustani raga Bhimpalasi (Bimplas), but with some differences in the use of notes.
• Similar Ragams: Abheri can sometimes be confused with Devagandhari, but they have different arohanam and avarohanam structures. Devagandhari does not use Dhaivatham in its descent.

Learning and Practicing Abheri:

1. Arohanam and Avarohanam: Practice the ascending and descending scales to get a feel for the characteristic phrases of Abheri.
2. Simple Compositions: Start with simple kritis like "Nagumomu Ganaleni" to understand how the ragam is used in compositions.
3. Alapana: Practice alapana (improvised melodic exploration) in Abheri to explore its emotional depth and characteristic phrases.
4. Listening: Listen to renditions by renowned artists to understand the nuances and emotive expressions in Abheri.

Conclusion:

Abheri is a delightful and expressive ragam that is beloved in Carnatic music for its emotional depth and beauty. It provides a rich canvas for both compositions and improvisations, making it a favorite among musicians and listeners alike.

Websites:

https://www.indiapicks.com/SNT_Telugu/P-13.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abheri

Youtube Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPTpxkVSrKM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoVbqVqALy8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMCZUW0mIQc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ijOU8ZVlag

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voCQVQsNH_U