Mohanam Raga: Structure, Compositions & Film Influence
- Kavitha
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Mohanam: The Melody of Joy
Mohanam is one of the most delightful and universally loved ragas in Carnatic music. Known for its simplicity and charm, it has the power to instantly lift the listener’s mood. Its bright and melodious nature has made it a favorite among classical musicians and film composers alike. Let’s explore the significance, structure, compositions, and impact of this radiant raga.
Significance and Origin
Mohanam is a janya raga (derived scale) of the 28th Melakarta Harikambhoji. It is an audava–audava raga, meaning it uses five notes in both the ascending and descending scales.
The name “Mohanam” translates to “that which enchants,” and true to its name, the raga evokes joy, devotion, and serenity. Its pentatonic nature gives it a universal appeal. The same notes are found in various musical traditions across the world, including folk and Western music.
Arohanam and Avarohanam
The structure of Mohanam follows a pentatonic (five-note) scale:
Arohanam (Ascending Scale): S R2 G3 P D2 SAvarohanam (Descending Scale): S D2 P G3 R2 S
Here, the swaras used are:
S - Shadjam
R2 – Chatusruti Rishabham
G3 – Antara Gandharam
P - Panchamam
D2 – Chatusruti Dhaivatam
Madhyamam and Nishadam are omitted, giving the raga a clear, open, and pleasing melodic structure.
This scale closely corresponds to the major pentatonic scale in Western music (C–D–E–G–A if Sa = C).
Emotional Essence and Aesthetic Appeal
Mohanam is known for its radiant and uplifting character. It beautifully conveys emotions of happiness, devotion, and peace. The absence of madhyamam and nishadam gives it a transparent sound that feels light and soothing.
Because of its joyful mood, Mohanam is often performed in concerts as a lively opening piece or as a part of bhajans and devotional renditions. Its simplicity makes it easily recognizable even to untrained ears, yet its scope for improvisation allows experts to explore it in depth.
Famous Compositions
Mohanam has inspired many great composers to create timeless pieces. Some of the most celebrated Carnatic compositions in this raga include:
Nannu Palimpa – Saint Tyagaraja
Evarura Ninnuvina – Saint Tyagaraja
Enduko baga Teliyadu – Saint Tyagaraja
Kapali – Papanasam Sivan
En palli kondeer – Arunachala Kavi
These masterpieces demonstrate how Mohanam can convey both devotion and exuberance with equal grace.
Mohanam in Film Music
Mohanam’s sweet and easily relatable melody has made it extremely popular in Indian film music. Its pentatonic structure allows seamless adaptation to various emotions and situations.
Some famous film songs based on Mohanam include:
"Giridhara Gopala" - Meera
"Malargal Nanindhana Paniyale" - Idhayakamalam
“Pazhaga Theriya Venum” – Missi Amma
“Aaha Inba Nilavinile” – Maya Bazaar
“Ninnukori Varnam” – Agninatchathram
“Porale Ponnu Thayi” – Karuthamma
These songs highlight how Mohanam transcends classical boundaries and continues to enchant listeners in modern cinema.
Why Learn Mohanam?
For students of Carnatic music, Mohanam is an excellent starting point for exploring melody and creativity.
It helps develop a clear sense of pitch and swara identification.
Its simplicity allows beginners to focus on gamakas and phrasing.
It provides ample scope for raga alapana, kalpana swaras, and light-classical adaptations.
Since its scale is common in global music systems, learning Mohanam bridges Carnatic and Western perspectives.
Mohanam’s charm lies in its balance. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet profound enough for masters.
Mohanam continues to enchant audiences across generations with its pure and joyful sound. Whether performed in a classical concert or reimagined in film music, its beauty remains timeless.
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