The Doctrine of Raga in Indian Music: With Nava Gana Ragas System

Description

Can a computer create the beautiful emotions evoked by an Indian music performance? This question inspired the author to engage in years of research, which eventually led to the development of the Generative Theory of Indian Music (GTIM).

This research also resulted in two Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems—AI-Raga and AI-RagaGen—along with several other intelligent systems. The theory draws upon ancient Indian musical treatises such as Naradiya Shiksha, Natyashastra by Bharata, Brihaddeshi by Matanga Muni, and Sangita Ratnakara by Sharangadeva. However, it presents a new and fundamental way of understanding Indian music in the age of computers and Artificial Intelligence.

Focusing on the concept of Raga, this book seeks to identify the fundamental axioms of Indian music and formulate them into “Laws of Musical Intelligence.” The theory explores how Ragas are formed and classified, revealing a surprisingly strong computational dimension within the structure of Indian music.

The book introduces a new method for classifying Ragas, called the Nava Gana Raga Classification System. This system helps address several long-standing questions and challenges in the understanding of Raga music.

It is hoped that this book will inspire readers who seek to uncover the logical principles underlying art—especially the art of Raga music. The author warmly welcomes all those interested in advancing this exploration further.