Raga Knowledge: Ananda Bhairavi MCQs Quiz | Class 10

Deep Dive into Ananda Bhairavi Raga

Ananda Bhairavi is one of the most ancient, auspicious, and melodious ragas in Carnatic music. Its name literally translates to “blissful Bhairavi,” reflecting its capacity to evoke profound emotions of devotion, compassion, and subtle joy. It is a traditional raga frequently used in various types of compositions, from kritis and varnams to padams and javalis.

Key Characteristics and Identity Points

Ananda Bhairavi is a Janya Raga, meaning it is derived from a parent Melakarta Raga. Let’s explore its unique features:

• Parent Melakarta: It is a derivative (Janya) of the 20th Melakarta Raga, Natabhairavi.
• Arohana-Avarohana Structure: It is classified as an Audava-Sampoorna raga.
  • Arohana (Ascending Scale): S G2 R2 G2 M1 P D2 P S’ (Audava – 5 notes in a winding path)
  • Avarohana (Descending Scale): S’ N2 D2 P M1 G2 R2 S (Sampoorna – 7 notes)
  • Note: The ‘G2’ here refers to Sadharana Gandharam, ‘R2’ to Chatusruti Rishabham, ‘M1’ to Suddha Madhyamam, ‘P’ to Panchamam, ‘D2’ to Chatusruti Dhaivatham, and ‘N2’ to Kaisiki Nishadham.
• Vakra Raga: Ananda Bhairavi is a prominent example of a ‘Vakra’ Raga, characterized by its winding or zigzag melodic phrases (prayogas) rather than a strictly linear ascent or descent. The phrase `S G2 R2 G2` in the arohana is a classic example of its vakra nature.
• Special Sancharas (Melodic Phrases):
  • `S G2 R2 G2`: This unique oscillation around G2 is a hallmark of the raga.
  • `P D2 P S’`: This specific ascent in the upper tetrachord is crucial for its Audava character.
  • `S’ N2 D2 P`: A characteristic descending phrase, often sung with a nuanced `N2`.
  • `R2 G2 M1 P D2 P`: Another distinctive melodic movement.
• Graha Swaras (Starting Notes): G2, M1, P, D2.
• Nyasa Swaras (Resting Notes): G2, M1, P, D2, N2. The D2, in particular, often acts as a significant resting note, adding to its contemplative feel.
• Jeeva Swaras (Life-giving Notes): G2, D2. These notes are vital for bringing out the true essence and identity of the raga.
• Rasa (Emotional Sentiment): Predominantly evokes Karuna (compassion) and Bhakti (devotion). It can also convey a subtle sense of Shringara (love).
• Usage: Widely used in Kritis (Thyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, Shyama Sastri), Swarajathis, Padams, and Javalis due to its emotive depth and traditional appeal.

Summary of Identity Points

To summarize, the identity of Ananda Bhairavi is strongly defined by:

• Its parentage from Natabhairavi.
• The Audava-Sampoorna structure with specific vakra patterns like S G2 R2 G2.
• The characteristic phrases such as P D2 P S’ (in ascent) and S’ N2 D2 P (in descent).
• The pronounced oscillations (gamakas) around G2, D2, and N2.
• The melancholic and devotional mood it consistently conveys.

Swara Sthanams of Ananda Bhairavi (derived from Natabhairavi)

Quick Revision Points

• Ananda Bhairavi is a Janya Raga from 20th Melakarta Natabhairavi.
• It is an Audava-Sampoorna Raga.
• Key phrases include S G2 R2 G2 M1 P D2 P S’ and S’ N2 D2 P M1 G2 R2 S.
• It’s a Vakra Raga, known for non-linear melodic movements.
• Rasa is primarily Karuna and Bhakti.
• G2, D2, N2 are crucial notes with specific gamakas.

Extra Practice Questions

1. Name two famous composers who have composed kritis in Ananda Bhairavi.
2. Explain the term ‘Audava-Sampoorna’ with respect to Ananda Bhairavi’s structure.
3. Describe the typical melodic movement (prayoga) involving the notes G2 and R2 in Ananda Bhairavi.
4. Why is Ananda Bhairavi considered an auspicious raga in Carnatic music tradition?
5. Apart from kritis, what other forms of compositions are commonly found in Ananda Bhairavi?