From Beginner to Bhakta: Mastering 'Janakasutha'—The Essential Lesson in Carnatic

Sharanya naidu
Sep 27
3 min read

Hello fellow music enthusiasts! If you're starting your journey into the captivating world of Carnatic music, you'll soon encounter the term Geetham. Think of the Geetham as a melodic building block, one of the first and most fundamental compositions you'll learn. It's a stepping stone that helps you grasp the essence of a Ragam (scale or melodic framework) before tackling more complex pieces.

Today, we're diving into one of the most popular and beautiful Geethams: 'Janakasutha', set in the evocative and poignant Ragam Saveri.

What is a Geetham? Your First Step

A Geetham is a simple, devotional song that acts as the perfect introduction to the basics of Carnatic music. Unlike the complicated structures of Krithis, a Geetham flows seamlessly from start to finish. It’s usually short and set to an easy-to-follow rhythm, like Rupaka Thalam (a 3-beat cycle).

The main purpose of a Geetham is to present the characteristic phrases and notes (swaras) of a chosen Ragam in a simple, unadorned manner. For beginners, they are crucial for developing proper voice culture, stabilizing your pitch, and learning the basic Gamakam (ornamentations) that define a Ragam's mood.

The Ragam: Saveri - An Oasis of Pathos and Devotion

'Janakasutha' is set in Ragam Saveri, a truly foundational and highly revered Ragam. Saveri is associated with the 15th Melakarta (parent scale), Mayamalavagowla, which you may already know as the beginner's first scale!

Saveri’s unique beauty comes from its specific combination of notes:

Arohanam (Ascending Scale): S R1 M1 P D1 S′
Avarohanam (Descending Scale): S′ N3 D1 P M1 G3 R1 S

Notice how the Antara Gandharam (G3) and Kakali Nishadham (N3) appear only in the descent. It's this asymmetric structure, combined with the signature oscillation on the Shuddha Rishabham (R1), that gives Saveri its profound identity.

When you sing Saveri, you should feel a sense of Karuna (compassion), Bhakti (devotion), and a touching Pathos. It's not a light, playful Ragam; it demands depth and feeling (bhava).

'Janakasutha': The Geetham

The Geetham 'Janakasutha' is a well-loved piece often attributed to Purandara Dasa, the 'Pitamaha' (Grandfather) of Carnatic Music.

The title itself means "Daughter of Janaka," referring to Sita, the divine consort of Lord Rama. The lyrics are devotional, serving as a melodic vehicle to praise them.

It is typically set in Rupaka Talam (the 3-beat cycle). This Geetham is specifically designed to highlight Saveri's key characteristics. Listen closely to how the notes are sung, particularly the held and oscillated R1. This distinct sound is the absolute signature of Saveri, and mastering it in 'Janakasutha' is your primary goal.

A Practice Tip for Learners

When you practice 'Janakasutha,' don't just focus on the notes; focus on the feel.

Sustained R1: Pay special attention to how long you sustain the R1 (Shuddha Rishabham) and the subtle oscillation applied to it. This is where the Ragam's emotional weight resides.
Rhythmic Accuracy: Keep the 3-beat Rupaka Talam accurately in your mind or by tapping your hand. Rhythmic stability is just as important as pitch accuracy.
Sing with Bhava: Remember the mood of Karuna. Try to sing with an internalized sense of devotion or contemplative yearning.

Mastering 'Janakasutha' in Ragam Saveri is a significant step forward. It means you've successfully navigated a complex mood, a distinctive scale, and a foundational rhythmic pattern—all essential skills for your musical journey ahead!

Happy singing!