Raga: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term originates from the Sanskrit word 'rāga', meaning 'to be passionate' or 'to delight.'
• In ancient texts, ragas were described as colored sounds that evoke specific emotions.

Cultural Significance

• Each raga is associated with different times of day and seasons, enhancing its emotional impact.
• Certain ragas are believed to have healing properties and are used in traditional Indian therapies.

Music Theory

• Ragas provide a set of guidelines for improvisation, allowing musicians to express their creativity within a framework.
• They typically include specific ascending and descending note patterns, creating a unique melodic character.

Pop Culture

• Ragas have influenced many contemporary music genres, even finding their way into Western music and jazz.
• Notable musicians like Ravi Shankar have introduced ragas to international audiences, blending them with other musical styles.

Psychology

• Research shows that listening to specific ragas can influence our emotions, often invoked in traditional healing practices.
• The structure of ragas can stimulate cognitive functions, promoting creativity and relaxation.

This word's position of #31,794 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31791 fruitlessly
• 31792 audiology
• 31793 likeliest
• 31794 raga
• 31795 barbarously
• 31796 pilaster
• 31797 bewailing
• ...