Raag Kafi

Raag Kafi originated from ancient folk music. Kafi’s scale was known to be the original major scale in Indian music in ancient period. Later Bilawal received the status of being the major scale. Kafi is often used in semi-classical compositions such as Thumri, Hori.

An Introduction to Raag Kafi

Looking for western notation for the music played in the video? Click here.

Raag Kafi, a presentation

Key Features of Raag Kafi

  • Kafi is a semi-classical raag. It permits the use of certain vivadi swars ex. Shuddh Ga and Shuddh Ni. Watch the video to learn how.

  • Mood:  Shringar (Romance). It can express both separation as well as the union of two lovers.

Aaroh-Avroh

s r G m p d N su

su N d p,m G r,s

Vaadi, Samvaadi

p, s
Nyaas Swars s, r, p
Jaati Sampoorna
Pakad p m G r,r G m p,m G r,s
Time 2nd prahar of the evening (10pm-1am)
Thaat Kafi

See Also: Raag Ahir-Bhairav