The asthayee, which constitutes the initial section of both vocal and instrumental compositions, derives its name from the root verb “Sthaa,” meaning “to stay.” The term “Sthayee” serves as the noun form, signifying “that which is stable,” and from it emerges the dialectic form known as “Asthayee.” The essence of “stability” lies in the alignment of raga music with the lyrical content. Typically, the asthayee spans from the tonic SA, ascending up to the Nishad (NI) of the middle octave, and then returns to the tonic, serving as an announcement for the subsequent antara section.
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