Question

Define the term Bhashanga and give two examples.

Hint:

Bhashanga ragas use anya swaras not found in the parent scale—e.g., Bhairavi and Kambhoji are classic examples.

Answer 1

The term Bhashanga refers to a type of janya raga (derived raga) in Carnatic music that uses one or more anya swaras (foreign notes) which are not part of its parent melakarta scale. Features of Bhashanga Ragas:

Include notes from outside the parent scale for melodic enrichment.
Often used to add emotional color and flexibility in raga exposition.
Contrasts with Upanga ragas which strictly follow the parent melakarta scale.
Examples:

Bhairavi: A janya of Natabhairavi; uses Kaishiki Nishada (N2) and Chatusruti Dhaivata (D2).
Kambhoji: Janya of Harikambhoji; incorporates anya swaras like Kaishiki Nishada (N2) for special phrases.
Significance: Bhashanga ragas allow for greater improvisational and expressive range in both composition and manodharma.