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Abhogi
Mela22nd, Kharaharapriya[1]
TypeAudava–Audava[1]
ArohanamS R₂ G₂ M₁ D₂ Ṡ[1]
AvarohanamṠ D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S[1]
Jeeva svarasG₂[1]
Chhaya svarasD₂[1]
EquivalentAbhogi Kanada
Carnatic music
Tanjavur-style tambura
Concepts
Compositions
Instruments
Melody
Vocals
Sarasvati Vīṇā
Veṇu
Nādasvaraṃ
Goṭṭuvādyaṃ (Citra Vīṇā)
Violin
Jal tarang
Percussion
Mr̥daṅgaṃ
Ghaṭaṃ
Morsing
Kanjira
Thavil
Drone
Tambura
Shruti box

Abhogi (Ābhōgi) is a raga in Carnatic music and has been adapted to Hindustani music.[2] It is a pentatonic scale, an audava raga.[3] It is a derived scale (janya raga), as it does not have all the seven swaras (musical notes). Ābhōgi has been borrowed from Carnatic music into Hindustani music and is also quite popular in the latter. In Hindustani music the raga has been classified under the Kafi thaat.[4][5]

Theory

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Ābhōgi scale with shadjam at C
Arohanam and Avarohanam for Abhogi

The Carnatic raga Abhogi is a symmetric pentatonic scale that does not contain panchamam and nishadam. It is called an audava-audava raga,[4][5] as it has 5 notes in both ascending and descending scales. Its ārohaṇa-avarohaṇa structure is as follows:

The notes used are shadjam, chathusruti rishabham, sadharana gandharam, shuddha madhyamam and chathusruthi dhaivatham. Ābhōgi is considered a janya raga of Kharaharapriya, the 22nd Melakarta raga, though it can be derived from Gourimanohari too, by dropping both panchamam and nishadam.

Graha bhedam

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Graha bhedam is the step taken in keeping the relative note frequencies same, while shifting the shadjam to another note in the rāgam. Abhogi's notes, when shifted using Graha bhedam, yields another pentatonic rāgam, Valaji. For more details and illustration of this concept refer Graha bhedam on Ābhōgi.

According to P.Moutal, the raga Kalavati is a transposition of Abhogi.[6]

Scale similarities

[edit]
  • Sriranjani is a rāgam which has kaishiki nishadam in both ascending and descending scales in addition to the notes in Ābhōgi. Its ārohaṇa-avarohaṇa structure is S R₂ G₂ M₁ D₂ N₂ Ṡ : Ṡ N₂ D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S
  • Jayamanohari is a rāgam which is like Abhogi in ascending scale and like Sriranjani is descending scale. Its ārohaṇa-avarohaṇa structure is S R₂ G₂ M₁ D₂ Ṡ: Ṡ N₂ D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S

Notable compositions

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Abhogi is a raga used for compositions in a medium to fast tempo. It has been used by many composers in classical music and film music. Notable traditional compositions in Abhogi include:

In Hindustani music

[edit]
Abhogi Kanada
ThaatKafi[2]
TypeAudava–Audava
Time of dayEarly night, 9–12[2]
ArohanaS R G̱ M D Ṡ[8]
Avarohana
  • Ṡ D M G̱ M R S
  • Ṡ D M G̱ R S
VadiS
SamavadiM
SynonymAbhogi
SimilarBageshri[2]

The Carnatic raga was incorporated relatively recently into Hindustani classical music where it is known as Abhogi Kanada (IAST: Abhogi Kānaḍā) or simply, Abhogi. The Kanada indicates its origin as a member of the Kanada group. Abhogi Kanada is assigned to the Kafi thaat.[2][8]

The Carnatic and Hindustani Abhogis have almost identical arohanas and avarohanas. However, one major differences is that the Carnatic raga uses the Kanada vakra (out of sequence) phrase G₂ M₁ R₂ S[c] in a straight manner.[1]

Theory

[edit]

Pa and Ni are omitted. Also Re is often omitted in ascent. Flat Ga is often approached from Ma in ascent and has a slight oscillation to show the typical Kanada. In descent often the typical Kanada phrase G̱ M̄ R S is used.[citation needed]

Related ragas: Bageshree. However, Bageshree also includes flat Ni and a limited use of Pa, which gives a different flavour.[2]

Compositions

[edit]

Hindustani compositions of note in Abhogi Kanada include:[8]

  • Par gaya chahai sab koi in Ektal by Raidas
  • Jayati siri radhike in Jhaptal by Gadadhar Bhatt
  • Ek barajori kare saiyya in Jhumratal

Important recordings

[edit]

Film songs

[edit]

In Tamil language

[edit]
Song Movie Year Composer Singer
Thangaratham Vanthathu Kalai Kovil 1964 Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy M. Balamuralikrishna, P. Susheela
Naan Indri Yaar Vaaruvaar (Ragamalika: Abhogi, Valaji) Maalaiyitta Mangai 1958 T. R. Mahalingam, A. P. Komala
Kangalin Vaarthaigal Kalathur Kannamma 1960 R. Sudarsanam A. M. Rajah, P. Susheela
Vanakkam Palamurai Sonnen Avan Oru Sarithiram 1977 M. S. Viswanathan T. M. Soundararajan, P. Susheela
Mangayaril Maharani Avalukendru Or Manam 1971 S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, P. Susheela
Inraiku Yen Indha Vaidehi Kathirunthal 1984 Ilaiyaraaja P. Jayachandran, Vani Jairam
Kalai Nera Amman Kovil Kizhakale 1986 S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, S. Janaki
Kuk Kuk Koo Ena Kaalaiyum Neeye Maalaiyum Neeye 1988 Devendran
Indha Paadal Keetuthaan Oru Vali Pathai S. A. Rajkumar Minmini
Konjam Neram Chandramukhi 2005 Vidyasagar Madhu Balakrishnan, Asha Bhonsle
Vaa Sagi Vaa Sagi Arasiyal 1997 Harish Raghavendra, Uma Ramanan
Maname Kurukshetram 2006 Isaac Thomas Kottukapally Pradeep
Idhayam Billa II 2012 Yuvan Shankar Raja Shweta Pandit
Ithuvarai Ithuvarai Potta Potti 2011 Aruldev Hariharan, Mahathi, Aruldev
Ulagam Rendaga Kaal Kolusu Santosh, Sanjeev Madhu Balakrishnan, Deepa

Language : Hindi

[edit]
Song Movie Composer Singers
Na Jaiyo Re Sautan Ghar Sainya Kaagaz Ki Nao Sapan-Jagmohan Asha Bhosle

Language : Telugu

[edit]
Song Movie Composer Singers
Nandanandana Family star Gopi Sundar Sid Sriram
Aalapinchana Eevela [9] Sri Rama Pattabhishekam Pendyala (composer) P. Susheela

Language : Malayalam

[edit]
Song Movie Composer Singers
Thozhukai kooppi unarum Boeing Boeing Raghukumar (composer) K.J.Yesudas

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Sources

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Abhogi

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from Grokipedia
Abhogi is a pentatonic (audava-audava) in , classified as a janya rāga derived from the 22nd rāga (also known as Karaharapriya). Its (ascending scale) consists of the notes Sa, Ri2 (chathusruthi rishabham), Ga2 (anthara gandharam), (suddha ), Da2 (chathusruthi dhaivatham), and Sa', while the avarohana (descending scale) features Sa', Da2, Ma1, Ga2, Ri2, and Sa, emphasizing a melodic structure that evokes a sense of and devotion. This rāga has been adapted into Hindustani classical music as Abhogi Kanada, belonging to the Kafi thaat and incorporating vakra (zigzag) movements in the gandhar, with an arohana of Sa Re ga ma Da Sa' and an avarohana of Sa' Da ma ga Re ga ma Re Sa, often rendered in the second prahar of the night (9 PM to midnight). In both traditions, Abhogi is characterized by its deep, introspective mood, with key phrases like Sa Re ,Da Sa and Re ga ma highlighting its Kanada ang (influence), and it spans multiple octaves for expansive improvisation. Notable compositions in Abhogi include Thyagaraja's "Nannu Brova" in Adi tala, which explores themes of divine protection, and Gopalakrishna Bharati's "Sabhapathikku" in Rupaka tala, a kriti praising Lord Shiva. In the Hindustani rendition, bandishes such as those composed by Acharya Vishwanath Rao Ringe, including "Parwar Digare Aalam" by Shri Krishna Ji Toley, showcase its emotional depth, often performed by artists like Ustad Rashid Khan. The rāga's structure allows for intricate alap, taan, and gamak developments, making it a favored choice for ragam-tanam-pallavi performances in Carnatic concerts and khayal explorations in Hindustani recitals.

Overview

Classification and Basic Features

Abhogi is a pentatonic raga, classified as audava-audava due to its use of five notes in both ascent and descent, and it is employed in both the Carnatic and Hindustani traditions of Indian classical music. As a janya raga, it is derived from the 22nd melakarta, Kharaharapriya, omitting the pancama and nishada swaras to create its characteristic structure. The (ascending scale) is S R₂ G₂ M₁ D₂ S', comprising shadja (S), chatusruti rishabha (R₂), sadharana (G₂), shuddha madhyama (M₁), and chatusruti dhaivata (D₂). The avarohana (descending scale) is S' D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S, following a symmetric pattern that emphasizes these swaras without vakra (zigzag) movements in the basic form. This structure lends Abhogi a balanced, symmetric quality, often rendered in medium to fast tempos to highlight its lively flow. Abhogi evokes a devotional and serene mood, with undertones of longing and introspection, suitable for evoking emotional depth in performances. Key phrases that define its identity include R₂ G₂ M₁ D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S' and D₂ M₁ G₂ R₂ S, which capture its melodic essence through oscillating movements around madhyama and .

Historical Origins

Abhogi is a janya derived from the 22nd , reflecting the evolving janya ragas of the post-Venkatamakhin era (17th century). The gained prominence through the compositions of (c. 1767–1847), who popularized it with kritis such as Manasu Nilpa and Nannu Brova, embedding devotional themes that highlighted its serene and introspective character. These works, part of Tyagaraja's extensive corpus of over 700 kritis, contributed significantly to Abhogi's establishment in the Carnatic repertoire. In the early , Abhogi was adapted into Hindustani music, primarily through the efforts of founder (1872–1937), who introduced it and recorded a titled Banara Rangila Mai in 1935, evolving it into Abhogi Kanada with vakra phrases incorporating Kanada ang. The raga's form has remained stable across both traditions, with ongoing performances in concerts and media reinforcing its established features.

Carnatic Music

Theoretical Structure

Abhogi is a janya raga derived from the 22nd , omitting Panchama and Nishada to create a pentatonic structure that emphasizes its melancholic and introspective character. The 's symmetry is evident in its identical audava scales for ascent and descent, allowing for balanced exploration in performance while maintaining a vakra potential in phrases such as S R G M D, which introduce zigzag movements for expressive depth. Within this framework, Madhyama (M1) serves as the vadi, the dominant note that anchors the raga's melodic flow, complemented by Rishabha (R2) as the samvadi, creating consonance and structural stability. Dhaivata (D2) functions as the anyaswara, receiving particular emphasis to enhance the raga's unique shading, while and Rishabha (R2) act as jeeva swaras, infusing vitality and driving the raga's emotional core. Gamakas play a crucial role in rendering, with kampita oscillations on adding subtle tremor for poignancy and jaru slides from Rishabha to Gandhara providing smooth transitions that highlight the raga's fluid phrasing. Rendering guidelines stress complete avoidance of Nishada to preserve Abhogi's distinct identity and prevent overlap with allied ragas, making it particularly suited for alapana in madhyama shruti, where the shuddha madhyama's amplifies its contemplative essence.

Graha Bhedam and Scale Relations

, a key analytical tool in theory, involves shifting the tonic note (shadja) to another prominent within a raga's structure while preserving the relative positions and frequencies of all , thereby generating a new raga with distinct melodic identity. This process underscores the interconnectedness of janya ragas derived from the same , allowing performers to demonstrate relational depth during improvisations such as alapana or kalpana. The technique requires careful maintenance of gamaka oscillations on non-tonic notes to evoke the derived raga's unique rasa, and it is particularly effective in pentatonic (audava) ragas like Abhogi due to their sparse set. In Abhogi, applying graha bhedam by elevating the madhyama (M1) to the role of the new shadja produces Valaji, another audava raga from the Kharaharapriya mela. This derivation maintains Abhogi's core swaras—shadja, chatusruti rishabha, sadharana gandhara, shuddha madhyama, and chatusruti dhaivata—but repositions them relative to the new tonic, emphasizing the madhyama's inherent strength as an anchor swara in Abhogi's symmetric ascent and descent. The resulting Valaji features a brighter, more vibrant character, often explored in faster tempos, and exemplifies how tonic shifts can transform the raga's emotional contour without altering pitch relationships. Abhogi's pentatonic framework shares structural similarities with the Hindustani Kafi thaat, both employing shuddha madhyama alongside komal gandhara and dhaivata equivalents, fostering a melancholic yet introspective mood; however, Carnatic interpretations of Abhogi incorporate intricate gamakas on rishabha and dhaivata, contrasting the straighter phrasing typical in Kafi-based renditions. This cross-tradition overlap highlights Abhogi's adaptability, though its Carnatic form prioritizes oscillatory nuances for deeper expressiveness. While Abhogi aligns with certain melodic phrases in Malavagowla through shared shuddha madhyama and gandhara usage, it diverges fundamentally by omitting panchama and nishada, creating a more austere, contemplative quality. Abhogi is further distinguished from fellow Kharaharapriya janyas like Madhyamavati, which includes panchama and nishada but excludes gandhara and dhaivata, emphasizing instead a smoother, devotional flow without Abhogi's characteristic dhaivata-centric nyasas in avarohana phrases. In contrast to the Hindustani Sri Raga, which incorporates komal rishabha and employs subtler meend, Abhogi's chatusruti rishabha and vigorous gamakas on gandhara and dhaivata impart a uniquely poignant, evening-raga essence. To illustrate Abhogi's relational position among Kharaharapriya derivatives, the following table outlines swara overlaps, highlighting shared elements (S, R2, G2, M1) and unique absences/presences that define melodic distinctions (G2: Sadharana Gandhara; N2: Kaisiki Nishada; N3: Kakali Nishada):
RagaSR2G2M1PD2N2N3
AbhogiYesYesYesYesNoYesNoNo
MadhyamavatiYesYesNoYesYesNoNoYes
AbheriYesNoYesYesYesNoNoYes
This tabular analysis reveals Abhogi's selective pentatonic profile, prioritizing dhaivata for closure while forgoing panchama to enhance its ethereal restraint, a feature central to its theoretical and performative identity.

Classical Compositions

One of the most prominent kritis in Abhogi is Tyagaraja's "Nannu Brova," composed in Telugu and set to Adi tala. This piece embodies the theme of divine protection, with the poet-composer pleading to Lord Rama to safeguard him from worldly afflictions, emphasizing through vivid imagery of surrender. The composition features elaborate madhyama kala sections in the charanam, allowing performers to explore the raga's serene and introspective mood with rhythmic variations. Muthuswami Dikshitar contributed "Sri Lakshmi Varaham" to the Abhogi repertoire, a kriti in Adi tala dedicated to the Lakshmi Varaha at the temple. The praise the divine couple's protective grace and cosmic form, incorporating vivid descriptions of Varaha's boar lifting the , which aligns with the raga's devotional essence. It often includes niraval expansions on the dhaivata note, highlighting Abhogi's characteristic phrases and evoking a sense of tranquil reverence. Papanasam Sivan's Tamil devotional "Nekkurugi Unnai" captures Abhogi's serene and soothing quality in Adi tala, addressing Lord Muruga with a plea for compassionate intervention in the devotee's struggles. The lyrics focus on themes of and surrender, portraying the deity's eyes as sources of melting grace, which enhances the raga's calm, introspective . This kriti underscores Sivan's style of blending emotional depth with melodic simplicity, making it a staple for evoking quiet devotion. Among other notable works, Patnam Subramania Iyer's "Evvari Bodhana" in Adi tala serves as an instructional piece that outlines Abhogi's structure through its pallavi and charanams, with Telugu sahitya questioning divine indifference while inviting elaboration. Shyama Shastri has no known compositions in Abhogi, though the raga's pentatonic nature suits forms in general Carnatic tradition. Overall, these classical pieces predominantly employ Adi tala in 2-kalai rendering, prioritizing bhakti-driven lyrics that reinforce Abhogi's peaceful, protective aura without venturing into dramatic expressions.

Notable Performers

delivered a renowned rendition of Tyagaraja's "Nannu Brova" in Abhogi during her 1960s concerts broadcast on , highlighted by intricate violin elaborations that showcased the raga's melodic contours. Her interpretation emphasized the raga's serene and devotional essence, influencing subsequent vocalists in circles. Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer brought prominence to Abhogi through his 1980s performances, where he laid special emphasis on gamakas to evoke emotional depth, particularly in the varnam "Evari Bodhana." As a revered , Iyer passed on his nuanced approach to the to generations of students, ensuring its preservation in traditional . D.K. Pattammal popularized Abhogi in live sabha concerts from the 1940s to the 1970s, infusing her renditions—such as "Guruvarulum Thiruvarulum"—with a distinctive devotional style that resonated with audiences seeking spiritual introspection. Her measured phrasing and bhakti-oriented delivery set a benchmark for female vocalists exploring the raga's introspective qualities. Instrumentalists have also elevated Abhogi through accompaniments in major concerts; violinist Lalgudi Jayaraman's solos, like his interpretation of "Sabhapatikku Veru Deivam," demonstrated the raga's lyrical potential on the with fluid bow techniques. Similarly, mridangam maestro Palghat Mani Iyer provided dynamic rhythmic support in these performances, enhancing the raga's rhythmic cycles with precise korvais and synchronized tani avartanams. In the modern era, has innovated with Abhogi in her fusions, blending traditional elements like the "Evari Bodhanavini" with contemporary instrumentation to appeal to broader audiences. More recently, as of 2025, artists such as Ramana Balachandhran have presented compelling renditions of Abhogi in concerts, continuing to explore its emotional depth.

Hindustani Music

Theoretical Framework

In Hindustani classical music, Abhogi is adapted as Abhogi Kanada, classified under the Kafi thaat and recognized as an audava raga, employing five notes in both ascent and descent with a vakra (zigzag) approach to Gandhara in the arohana. The arohana proceeds as S R g m D S', incorporating komal Gandhara (g) after Rishabha (R) and before Madhyama (m), while the avarohana descends as S' D m g R S, often elaborating with phrases like R ,D ,D S to emphasize the Kanada flavor. This structure avoids Panchama and Nishada entirely, creating a pentatonic scale that evokes a deep, introspective mood. The vadi swara is Madhyama, serving as the dominant note that anchors the raga's emotional core, with Shadj as the samvadi for harmonic support. Abhogi Kanada is traditionally performed during the second prahar of the night, from 9 PM to 12 AM, aligning with its serene and contemplative character. Key phrases such as S R ,D S, R g m, and g m R S highlight the Kanada ang, where meend (glide) from komal to Rishabha imparts a distinctive, oscillating fluidity, distinguishing it from straighter scalar movements in related ragas. In terms of shruti, Abhogi Kanada is often rendered in lower pitches such as C or D to enhance its profundity, with the tanpura typically tuned to emphasize Madhyama as the foundational drone, reinforcing the vadi's prominence. This adaptation draws briefly from its Carnatic origins but evolves through Hindustani conventions to prioritize vakra phrases and meend for expressive depth.

Adaptations and Variations

In Hindustani music, Abhogi represents a notable of its Carnatic counterpart, incorporating subtle modifications to align with northern stylistic preferences while retaining the core pentatonic structure. The raga's swaras—Shadja (S), Chatusruti Rishabha (R), Komal Gandhara (g), Shuddha Madhyama (m), and Shuddha Dhaivata (D)—mirror the Carnatic scale (S R2 G2 M1 D2 S'), but Hindustani renditions emphasize a Kanada-like flavor through the prominent use of komal Gandhara, introduced by Kirana gharana founder Abdul Karim Khan in the early 1900s. Variations in interpretation arise across gharanas, reflecting regional and stylistic evolutions. In the , the ascent often follows a straight, linear path (S R g m D S) to highlight melodic purity, whereas other traditions, such as Jaipur-Atrauli, incorporate vakra (circuitous) phrases sparingly, adding Nishada (n) only in specific Uttaranga explorations for emotional depth without altering the audava (five-note) essence. Abhogi shares phrase similarities with and , particularly in poorvanga movements evoking a serene, introspective mood, yet remains distinctly pentatonic by varjying Panchama and Nishada in the primary form. It diverges from the Carnatic version through lighter gamakas (oscillations) and increased vakra usage, such as mgRDS transitions, which impart a more contemplative, less ornate texture suited to khayal elaboration. Following its early 20th-century introduction, Abhogi underwent standardization in akharas (training lineages) after the 1940s, as Hindustani musicians formalized its structure amid post-independence cultural revivals, leading to consistent repertoire in concert traditions. In the , fusions have emerged, blending Abhogi with Western elements in contemporary compositions, though these maintain the raga's core identity.
AspectCarnatic AbhogiHindustani Abhogi
Primary SwarasS R2 G2 M1 D2 (: S R2 G2 M1 D2 S'; Avarohana: S' D2 M1 G2 R2 S)S R g m D (: S R g m D S'; Avarohana: S' D m g R S; komal g emphasized)
Key PhrasesStraight-line ascents with heavy gamakas (e.g., R2-G2 oscillations); Uttaranga focus on D2-S'Vakra poorvanga (e.g., m g R S, mgRDS); lighter gamakas, Kanada-inflected g-m transitions
Stylistic EmphasisOrnate, rhythmic krithis with vivid oscillationsLinear khayal elaboration, introspective mood via sparse Uttaranga

Compositions and Bandishes

In Hindustani music, bandishes in Abhogi Kanada are typically structured around 8-10 matras, allowing for intricate elaboration of the raga's vakra phrases, particularly through sargam sections that emphasize the curved approach to Gandhar (g m R S). These compositions often draw on romantic or devotional themes, with lyrics predominantly in to evoke emotional depth aligned with the raga's contemplative mood. A classic example is Khan's "Bangala Rangila Mai," showcasing his innovative sections with intricate melodic explorations influenced by Carnatic , alongside fluid taan patterns that emphasize sargam weaving. In modern interpretations, Ustad Amir Khan performed khayal in Abhogi Kanada, infusing the raga with expressive bol- that amplify its romantic essence while maintaining structural fidelity. Recent compositions include self-composed bandishes by artists like , reflecting the raga's continued relevance in contemporary practice.

Key Recordings

One of the earliest and most influential recordings of Abhogi Kanada in the Hindustani tradition is Ustad Abdul Karim Khan's rendition from 1935, captured on Odeon label during sessions in Bombay. This pioneering vocal performance features the "Bangala Rangila Mai," showcasing his innovative sections with intricate melodic explorations influenced by Carnatic ragas, alongside fluid taan patterns that emphasize sargam weaving, setting a benchmark for expressiveness. In the , Pandit , a leading exponent of the , delivered an elaborate interpretation of Abhogi Kanada, documented in live and studio recordings from that era, including a notable 1974 . His style highlights a robust jor section integrated with accompaniment in madhya laya, building tension through expansive bol-taans and a signature vocal timbre that conveys deep emotional resonance, as heard in LP releases under labels like HMV. An instrumental highlight from the is Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia's rendition on the Nimbus label, part of his "Divine Flute" series. This recording emphasizes the raga's serene, introspective mood through extended and jod, transitioning into rhythmic gats that exploit the flute's breathy timbre to evoke twilight melancholy, accompanied by subtle support. While no groundbreaking studio recordings of Abhogi Kanada emerged in the 2020s, the raga has seen revivals through digital streaming platforms like Spotify, where archival tracks by artists such as Milind Chittal and reissues of classics by Ustad Abdul Karim Khan have gained renewed listens among global audiences. Notable contemporary performances include those by Ustad Rashid Khan, showcasing the raga's emotional depth in khayal form.

Tamil Cinema Examples

In Tamil cinema, the raga Abhogi has been employed by composers to evoke a sense of vibrance and positivity, often in romantic or introspective sequences that highlight emotional depth and hope. Its pentatonic structure lends itself to melodic explorations that blend classical purity with film narrative needs, appearing in approximately 5-7 notable tracks across decades. Early adopters like the duo Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy showcased its potential in the 1950s and 1960s, while later composers such as and incorporated subtle variations for contemporary appeal. One of the earliest and most successful uses is "Naan Andri Yaar Arivaar" from the 1958 film Malayitta Mangai, composed by Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy with lyrics by , and sung by T.R. Mahalingam and A.P. Komala. The song opens with a traditional ascent from the lower shadja ("S, R, G, M, GR"), establishing Abhogi's characteristic phrases, and features a poignant descent in the line "yaar thoduvaar" from upper to shadja, fitting a romantic duet scene. Another MSV-Ramamoorthy classic is "Thanga Radham Vandhadhu" from Kalai Kovil (1964), rendered by and , where intricate sangatis in the upper octave swirl down to lower , enhanced by Chittibabu's , underscoring themes of longing and celebration in a village romance. Ilaiyaraaja's contributions include "Vanakkam Pala Murai" from Avan Oru Sarithiram (1976), a by and that clearly delineates the through the phrase "MGRGMD," portraying a light-hearted yet emotional reunion. In Vaidehi Kathirunthal (1984), "Indraikku En Indha Anandame," sung by and , adopts a tisra nadai , with sangatis swaying between and madhyama to convey joyful romance. Similarly, "Kalai Nera Poonguil" from Amman Koil Kizhakkale (1986) begins at lower dhaivata and ascends exploratively, suiting a melancholic rural backdrop.

Hindi Cinema Examples

In , Raga Abhogi, often rendered as Abhogi Kanada in its Hindustani adaptation, has been sparingly employed, typically in the mid-20th century by prominent Bollywood composers to evoke a sense of longing or playfulness, blended with film narrative demands. One notable example is "Sharam Ati Hai Magar" from the 1968 film , composed by and sung by . This song features the raga's characteristic ascending and descending phrases in a light-hearted context, showcasing Burman's early fusion style that incorporates rhythmic variations for comedic effect. Another instance appears in "Na Jaiyo Re Sautan Ghar Sainya" from the 1975 film Kaagaz Ki Nao, composed by Sapan Jagmohan with vocals by . Here, Abhogi Kanada recurs as a thematic motif, particularly prominent in a dance sequence performed by musicians and , highlighting the raga's melodic contour while integrating classical instrumental elements into the film's dramatic structure. R.D. Burman's work in the 1970s further exemplifies fusions of Abhogi Kanada with popular idioms, often mixing the raga's with western harmonies and upbeat tempos to enhance commercial appeal, as seen in limited tracks across his oeuvre. A later adaptation is found in "Jiya Nahi Laage" from the 1987 film Sau Saal Baad, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal and rendered by , where the raga's serene essence is adapted into a romantic melody with subtle orchestral embellishments. Overall, such usages remain confined to about three to four prominent tracks in films, with no major incorporations noted post-2000 as of 2025, reflecting the raga's niche presence amid evolving cinematic music trends that prioritize hybrid genres.

Telugu Cinema Examples

In , Abhogi has been employed predominantly for spiritual and emotional sequences, leveraging the 's pentatonic structure to create a sense of serenity and . Early integrations of the in Tollywood highlight its role in devotional and nostalgic narratives, setting a foundation for later composers. Another notable instance is "Aalapinchana Eevela Madhura Smritule" from the 1963 mythological film , composed by Pendyala Nageswara Rao and sung by . The song's lyrical focus on sweet memories aligns with Abhogi's evocative quality, enhancing the film's devotional theme. Composers like Ilaiyaraaja extended this tradition in the 1980s and 1990s, incorporating Abhogi elements in devotional tracks. In the 2010s, A.R. Rahman's influences appeared in Telugu films, reflecting the raga's enduring appeal in modern Tollywood soundtracks.

Malayalam Cinema Examples

In Malayalam cinema, the raga Abhogi has been employed sparingly but effectively by composers to evoke its inherent devotional and melancholic essence, often in songs that blend lyrical introspection with emotional depth. One prominent example is "Aalila Manjalil Neeyadumbol" from the 1992 film Soorya Gayathri, composed by Raveendran with lyrics by O. N. V. Kurup and vocals by K. J. Yesudas and K. S. Chithra; the track adheres closely to the pure structure of Abhogi, highlighting the raga's soothing pentatonic scale for a romantic yet contemplative mood. During the , Abhogi appeared in a few devotional and semi-devotional contexts within films, underscoring its suitability for themes of longing and . For instance, "Kaathirippo Kanmani Urangatha" from (1997), composed by Vidyasagar with by Gireesh Puthenchery and sung by Yesudas and Chithra, uses the raga's ascending and descending phrases to create an introspective narrative around unfulfilled love, while maintaining a subtle devotional undertone. Similarly, "Iniyum Paribhavamaruthe" from (1998), by composer with by Gireesh Puthenchery and vocals by Yesudas and Chithra, draws on Abhogi's serene quality for a poignant plea against sorrow, aligning with the film's emotional core. These tracks, limited to a handful in the decade, reflect Abhogi's selective use in Mollywood for evoking quiet reflection rather than grand drama. In the , Abhogi's presence remained subtle and occasional, often in non-mainstream or devotional-oriented films, with no major commercial hits emerging by 2025. Notable inclusions are "Amme Mookambike" from Nalla Paattukaare (), composed by Sharath with by Gireesh Puthenchery and featuring a choral that amplifies the raga's devotional mood in tribute to Goddess , and "Udayasooryane" from Paattinte Palazhi (), by Dr. Suresh with by , which employs Abhogi for a lyrical sunrise symbolizing and renewal. Such usages reinforce Abhogi's affinity for introspective, poetry-driven songs that prioritize emotional subtlety over orchestral flair.

References

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  35. https://www.discogs.com/release/3450259-Ustad-Abdul-Karim-Khan-1934-1935
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  49. https://malayalasangeetham.info/songs.php?tag=Search&raga=Aabhogi&category=raga&year=2010&limit=2&page_num=1
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