Understanding Aaroh and Avaroh in Hindustani Classical Music

Hindustani classical music is rich with terminology and concepts that are essential for understanding its structure and melodic expression. Two fundamental terms in this context are Aaroh and Avaroh. These terms describe the ascending and descending sequences of notes in a raga, respectively.

Aaroh

Aaroh refers to the sequence of notes used when moving upward through the scale of a raga. It outlines how the notes are arranged in ascending order, providing a roadmap for musicians to understand the structure of a raga and its melodic possibilities.

Definition and Example

Aaroh is the ascending order of notes in a raga. For instance, if a raga has the notes Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni, the Aaroh would be:

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni

Avaroh

Avaroh is the reverse sequence of notes, describing the notes used when descending through the scale of a raga. It indicates how the notes are arranged in a descending order.

Definition and Example

Avaroh is the descending order of notes in a raga. Using the same example, the Avaroh would be:

Ni Dha Pa Ma Ga Re Sa

Importance of Aaroh and Avaroh in Hindustani Classical Music

Understanding Aaroh and Avaroh is crucial for performers and listeners, as they form the foundational framework of a raga's melodic expression. These sequences are essential for guiding improvisation and composition, defining the character of a raga and providing a clear structure that guides musicians in their performances.

Raga Hamsadhwani

For instance, in the raga Hamsadhwani, which is popular in both Carnatic and Hindustani styles, the Aaroh is:

Sa - Re - Ga - Pa - Ni - Sa’

While the Avaroh is:

Sa’ - Ni - Pa - Ga - Re - Sa

Notice that Ma and Dha are omitted in this raga.

Raga Bhupali

Another example is the raga Bhupali, which is more common in Hindustani music. The Aaroh for this raga is:

Sa - Re - Ga - Pa - Dha - Sa’

The Avaroh is:

Sa’ - Dha - Pa - Ga - Re - Sa

Here, Ma and Ni are omitted.

Raga Lalit

Raga Lalit, also prevalent in Hindustani music, has a unique characteristic. Its Aaroh is:

Ni - Re - Ga - Ma - Dha - Ni - Sa

And its Avaroh is:

Sa - Ni - Dha - Ma - Dha - Ma - Ga - Ma - Ga - Re - Sa

Notice that the Avaroh of Lalit is not sequential, making it a Vakra (crooked) raga. This irregularity in the Avaroh distinguishes it from the more structured ragas like Hamsadhwani and Bhupali.

Conclusion

Aaroh and Avaroh are foundational elements of Hindustani classical music. They provide a framework for understanding and expressing the melodic structure and character of a raga. Understanding these terms is crucial for both performers and listeners to appreciate the depth and complexity of Hindustani music.