A Non-Parametric Analysis of Some Raga Characteristics

In Chapter 2 Bhatkhande’s ten thaat theory has been discussed in terms of structure function of notes. Each thaat was then shown to be constituted of five two unit parallel structures connected in series. The inclusion and exclusion theory of notes was then utilised for construction as well as identification of the ten thaats. In this chapter it has been demonstrated that like thaats ragas may also be defined in terms of structure function of notes. The chapter also includes raga defination, its classification and some of its essential characteristics viz. octave, arohan (ascending scale), avarohan (descending scale),ascending and descending movements(AADM),lower and upper tetrachord(LAUT) and vadi notes. Again in North Indian classical music there arises a number of questions concerning ragas and their characteristics that are to be subjected to statistical enquiry for their proper verification. Under such circumstances standard statistical methods like non-parametric tests can be an important tool in verifying and testing fundamental musicological questions related to ragas and their characteristics. Some of these questions are: