All Raags
Raag
Yaman
The Gateway Raga
Arohana (Ascending)
Ṇ R G M' D N Ṡ
Avarohana (Descending)
Ṡ N D P M' G R S
Tradition
Hindustani
Thaat
Kalyan
Jaati
Sampurna–Sampurna
Time of Performance
First prahar of the night (early evening)
About This Raag
Yaman is often the first serious raga taught to students of Hindustani classical music, and for good reason — its structure is elegant, its mood serene, and its scope for elaboration immense. Built on all shuddha swaras with the single exception of tivra (sharp) Ma, Yaman is an evening raga of great majesty. In the arohana, Sa is characteristically avoided, with phrases typically beginning from Ni of the lower octave. This gives the raga its signature soaring quality. Also known as Kalyan in older traditions, Yaman remains one of the most frequently performed ragas on the concert stage.
Mood & Character
Serene, romantic, devotional, majestic
Notable Facts
- Often the first serious raga taught to Hindustani music students
- Uses tivra (sharp) Ma — all other swaras are shuddha
- Sa is typically avoided in the arohana — phrases begin from the lower Ni
- Also known as Yaman Kalyan when shuddha Ma makes an occasional appearance
- One of the most performed ragas in concert settings