Alapana is a melodic exploration of a raga (melodic mode) without the rhythmic accompaniment of percussion instruments, allowing the musician to explore its nuances, emotive potential, and aesthetic beauty. It serves as a means for the performer to establish the mood and essence of the raga, gradually unfolding its melodic contours and characteristic phrases.
Alapana typically begins with a slow and meditative exploration of the raga's scale (aarohana and avarohana), emphasizing its key swaras (notes) and melodic intervals. The musician gradually introduces melodic phrases (prayogas) that highlight the unique features and mood of the raga, showcasing its beauty and depth. Various melodic ornamentations (gamakas), such as meend (glides), kampitam (oscillations), and gamakam (ornamented slides), are employed to enhance the expressiveness and richness of the rendition. As the Alapana progresses, the musician explores different octaves, tempo variations, and rhythmic patterns within the framework of the raga. The improvisation gradually builds in intensity and complexity, reaching a crescendo before transitioning to the next phase of the performance. Alapana offers a captivating listening experience for audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in the beauty and subtlety of the raga. Listeners can appreciate the melodic intricacies, emotive expressions, and virtuosity of the performer as they navigate through the various nuances of the raga.

Learn how to sing Raga Alapanas for the 12 ragas included in this course and taught by Sangeet Samrat Chitravina N Ravikiran:

1.Asaveri Model Raga Alapana
2.Yadukulakambhodhi Model Raga Alapana
3.Behag Model Raga Alapana
4.Gowrimanohari Model Raga Alapana
5.Kambhodhi Model Raga Alapana
6.Kedaragowla Model Raga Alapana
7.Lalitha Model Raga Alapana
8.Anandabhairavi Model Raga Alapana
9.Kharaharapriya Model Raga Alapana
10.Latangi Model Raga Alapana
11.Reetigowla Model Raga Alapana
12.Shahana Model Raga Alapana

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