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title: 'Why do two ragas with the same notes sound different?'
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date: '2026-11-06T01:24:00+00:00'
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summary: 'Ragas can share notes and differ in their characteristic phrases and inflections.'
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 FAQ

# Why do two ragas with the same notes sound different?

 Updated 6 November 2026

 

Ragas can share notes and differ in their characteristic phrases and inflections. Gordon Thompson's Encyclopedia of India account explains a raga through its melodic features and its pakad, or identifying phrase. Listen to the movement of the melody as well as the notes: the phrase helps identify the raga.



 

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