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72 Melakarta ragas

The 72 Melakarta ragas are a classical framework in South Indian music, serving as foundational scales for many compositions. Each raga is defined by a specific set of seven notes (swaras) chosen from a fixed palette, with precise intervals and sequences. The system ensures a logical, systematic organization of ragas, categorizing them based on patterns of notes—such as the presence of sharp or flat variations. These ragas serve as the "parent" scales, from which numerous other melodies are derived, ensuring coherence and diversity within the classical tradition.