Ragas Explained

A Beginner’s Guide to the Soul of Indian Music

9/15/20251 min read

ragas and swar in hindustani classical pune
ragas and swar in hindustani classical pune

Ragas Explained – A Beginner’s Guide to the Soul of Indian Music

When you join any Hindustani classical vocal classes in Pune, one of the first concepts you’ll encounter is the raga. But what is a raga, and why is it so central to Indian music?

What is a Raga?

A raga is not just a scale—it’s a melodic framework that evokes specific moods (called rasas) at particular times of day or seasons.

Famous Beginner-Friendly Ragas:

  • Raga Yaman – Evening raga, calming and uplifting.

  • Raga Bhairav – Morning raga, devotional and meditative.

  • Raga Desh – Associated with monsoon, joyful and patriotic.

Why Learn Ragas?

  • Improves voice control and range.

  • Trains your ear to recognize notes and shrutis.

  • Builds a foundation that makes Bollywood, ghazals, and bhajans easier to sing.

At Opus School of Music, our Hindustani vocal training in Pune blends tradition with modern learning, so students connect deeply with classical music while applying it to contemporary singing.