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The Blog
Saraswati, goddess of music and learning
From the teachers at Sangeetham

Stories, Tips & Tradition

Reflections on Carnatic music, Thevaram, learning and the living heritage of South Indian classical music, written for students, parents and lovers of the art.

A young girl with the seven swaras glowing as colourful orbs around her
✦ The Newest Note

Sa Ri Ga Ma: Meet the Seven Swaras

You already know these seven swaras, you’ve hummed them all your life. A warm, jargon-free introduction to the building blocks of every Carnatic song.

By Teacher Nanthini · 9 July 2026 · 5 min read

A young singer seated in a temple, absorbed in song
Beginner’s Guide

What Is Sruti, and Why the Tanpura Never Stops

A gentle guide to sruti, the base pitch that anchors every Carnatic song, and why the drone hums on without ever stopping.

12 July 2026 · 5 min read
Purandaradasa keeping rhythm with tala clappers
Beginner’s Guide

Keeping Time with Your Hands: A Friendly Guide to Tala

Why do Carnatic singers keep the beat with their hands? A simple guide to tala, Adi talam and the three little movements that hold the rhythm together.

12 July 2026 · 5 min read
A young girl singing, exploring a raga
Beginner’s Guide

What Is a Raga, Really?

More than a scale, a raga is a mood you can sing. A simple explanation of the “soul” of Carnatic music, with no theory required.

9 July 2026 · 5 min read
A traditional painting of the saint-composer Purandaradasa in song
Beginner’s Guide

Why Every Journey Begins with Sarali Varisai

The humble first exercises every student sings, and why even masters of fifty years never leave them behind.

9 July 2026 · 5 min read
An illustrated winding path leading to a lit stage
Beginner’s Guide

The Beginner’s Roadmap: From Sarali Varisai to Varnam

The whole learning journey on one page, from your child’s first note to their first varnam. A clear map for students and parents.

9 July 2026 · 6 min read