Kafi
काफ़ी
S R g m P D n S' | S' n D P m g R S
Origins & Context
Kafi is the representative of the Kafi thaat, which produces the most versatile ragas in Hindustani music. Even though it is noted in writing that the raga is in the sixth prahar, the style of this raga is very free.
It is a straight-chained raga. Sometimes, artists will insert shuddha ga, komal dha, and shuddha ni for embellishment. It is okay, but use those notes very sparingly. Overdoing those notes will make listeners think this is a different raga known as Pilu, which uses those notes frequently.
Technical Details
Melodic structure and movement patterns
Aroha (Ascent)
S R g m P D n S'
Avroh (Descent)
S' n D P m g R S
Pakad (Catch Phrase)
S R R g m P
Recordings & Performances
Listen to master musicians perform this raga
Upcoming recordings and performances will be featured here. Check back soon!