Raga Bhairavi is one of the most popular and auspicious ragas in Carnatic music. It is a Bhashanga raga derived from the 20th Melakarta raga, Natabhairavi.
Lakshana of Bhairavi:
Arohanam: S R2 G2 M1 P D2 S
Avarohanam: S N2 D1 P M1 G2 R2 S
Janya Raga: Derived from Natabhairavi, but includes anya swaras such as Chatusruti Dhaivata (D2) and Kaishiki Nishada (N2).
Type: Bhashanga raga due to use of foreign notes.
Gamakas: Rich in gamakas; extensively used in padams, varnams, and kritis.
Composers:
Raga Bhairavi has been favored by composers like Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri for its depth and expressiveness.
Mood:
Evokes devotion (bhakti), pathos (karuna), and grandeur.