Varna can be likened to the fundamental building blocks of the Indian music system, akin to alphabets. Another interpretation of this term is “to describe.” In the realm of music, these varnas find application in crafting melodic phrases. Just as we utilize A, B, C, D in the English language to construct words, in music, the notes SA, RE, GA, MA, PA, DHA, NI serve as the foundation for our musical compositions. It’s safe to assert that in the context of music, the term “varna” equates to “note.” Varna is the symbol through which musical sounds are articulated and woven together into melodies. An arrangement of musical varnas in a particular sequence gives rise to a specific phrase within a raga.
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