Melakarta raga

Melakarta ragas are a system of foundational musical scales in Carnatic music, the classical music of South India. Each Melakarta raga consists of a unique combination of seven notes (swaras) and serves as a parent scale to derive other ragas. There are 72 Melakarta ragas, categorized based on specific patterns of half and whole steps. This structure enables musicians to create melodies and improvisations. Understanding Melakarta ragas is essential for musicians as it provides a framework for composing and performing in the rich tradition of Carnatic music.