Exploring a Jathiswaram in Raga Kalyani  is a rite of passage for every Carnatic music student. It is where mathematical precision meets the majestic, auspicious glow of one of the most beloved Ragas in the system. If you are learning this on the Veena , you are in for a treat. The Veena’s ability to produce rich oscillations (Gamakams) makes Kalyani truly shine. Understanding Raga Kalyani Kalyani is the 65th Melakarta raga. It is a Prati Madhyama  raga, meaning it uses the s

Carnatic music is built on two pillars—discipline and imagination. While varnams, exercises, and compositions strengthen technique, true musical personality emerges through manodharma , the art of spontaneous creativity. For veena learners, manodharma is an exciting milestone, because it transforms the instrument from something you play to something that speaks through you. Every slide, pluck, and oscillation becomes a personal interpretation of the raga. Manodharma is often

Hey music learners! 👋 As you deepen your study of Carnatic music, you'll encounter a beautiful confluence of devotion, melody, and rhythm. Today, we're diving into one such captivating combination: the divine verses of Thiruppavai , set to the expressive Gowlai Ragam , and rendered on the versatile Veena . Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate student, understanding how to approach devotional compositions like this is crucial for connecting with the bhāva  (emotion) o