What are Swaras (or Sur)

What are Swaras (or Sur) ?The word swara (meaning notes) is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Svar’, which means sound. There are different forms of sound.But the sound which is soothing to ear and which is musical is known as swaras or sur.

Hindustani classical music has 7 major notes also known as Shudha Swaras.

Sur - Long name

Sa-Shadaj

Re-Rishabh

Ga-Gandhar

Ma-Madhyam

Pa-Pancham

Dha-Dhaivat

Ni-Nishad

Shudha Swaras

Sa and Pa swaras are called pure swaras (shudha swaras) and have a fixed position's are also known as Achal Swaras.

Vikrit Swaras – Komal and Teevra

Swaras other than Achal swaras can be sung half note above or below their original position. They are known as Vikrit Swaras.

Re ,Ga,Dh,Ni can sung half note below and are known as Komal Swaras. Ma is sung half note above it’s original note and is known as Teevra Ma.

Thus in total there are 12 swaras –  7 shudh and 5 Vikrit. Out of 5 Vikrit swaras, 4 are Komal and 1 is Teevra..