Odhava

Odhava is a type of raga (musical mode) in Indian classical music. It is characterized by the pentatonic scale, meaning it uses five notes (swaras) in its ascending and descending scales. This distinguishes it from Sampurna ragas (seven notes) and Shadava ragas (six notes). The specific notes used in an Odhava raga vary, leading to a diverse range of melodic possibilities and distinct musical identities. The absence of certain notes creates a particular aesthetic and melodic contour often associated with specific moods or emotions. The choice of omitted notes plays a crucial role in defining the raga's character and its unique musical landscape. The term 'Odhava' describes the structure of the raga based on the number of notes, not its emotional quality (rasa) or any deity association.