Author: Ram Krishnamani Date: September 7, 2025
3M With Shantha : Mobile App Series 24 – Raaga
In today’s episode, Shantha and Ram continue their engaging discussion, exploring the journey of Dwani evolving into Raaga and how it forms the backbone of Bharatanatyam.
Shantha reflects on how Dwani is not just sound but a subtle vibration that transforms into structured notes. Ram adds that when these notes are sequenced with purpose, they mature into Raaga, carrying both melodic beauty and emotional depth.
Shantha emphasizes that in Bharatanatyam, the Raaga is not just music but also a vehicle of rasa, guiding the dancer’s expression. Ram highlights that without Dwani becoming Raaga, the synergy between music and dance would lose its foundation.
Together they explain that Raagas are sung in three distinct speeds—vilambita (slow), madhyama (medium), and druta (fast)—each speed layering new dimensions of energy. Shantha remarks that these speeds are essential in Bharatanatyam, where the dancer mirrors the progression with adavus and abhinaya.
Ram notes how the gradual acceleration from vilambita to druta symbolizes both discipline and dynamism in performance. Shantha adds that the interplay of speed and expression ensures that Raaga is never static but constantly alive. Ram reiterates that the dancer’s body becomes the living instrument through which Dwani and Raaga are embodied.
Shantha then gracefully concludes the segment by introducing Aarthi, who steps forward to demonstrate the three speeds of the Raaga, bringing their discussion to life through sound.
