Dhatu Varisai

Dhatu Varisai lessons are the basic and an essential exercise in Carnatic music. It focuses on developing the agility and control of a learner’s voice. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance and different aspects of Carnatic Music’s Dhatu Varisai. We will also explore some practice techniques that use this Tala and have a regime.

Before moving on you are expected to master the following two exercises:

1. Sarali Varisai
2. Janta Varisai

What is Dhatu Varisai?

Dhatu varisai exercises are an important part of beginner lessons in Carnatic music. The swaras are in non-linear patterns. It means that the Dhatu swaras are jumping between notes. These patterns help learners become more comfortable with singing swaras that are not in consecutive manner.

For example, a linear pattern would have swaras like, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Whereas a non-linear pattern would have swaras like Sa Ga Re Ma Pa. These patterns enhance vocal flexibility and precision.

Practiced in Mayamalavagowla raga, Dhatu varisaigal aids in pitchy stability and swara accuracy. You see, each exercise progresses in complexity which helps in handling faster note transitions while maintaining a good sense of clarity and rhythms.

Different Aspects

Dhatu varisai lesson introduces non-linear swara patterns to beginners. Swaras don’t move in step-by-step sequence. I’d always push my learners towards recognizing pitches and these Dhatu varisai notes train the ear to recognise and reproduce pitches.

This exercise is practiced in Adi Tala (8 beat cycle) which helps learners maintain rhythmic discipline while navigating complex swara jumps. Dhatu varisai, 4th lesson on Ganamrutha Bodhini, is also practised in different speeds(kala). This helps the learners build confidence and flexibility in both slow and fast passages.

How to Practice Dhatu Varisai in Carnatic Music?

To practice these exercises perfectly, one must first learn the various Dhatu Varisai practice techniques and right intonation it requires.

Kalpanaswaram patterns

One of the best ways to practice Dhatu Varisai swara patterns is by first learning the kalpanaswaram patterns. These patterns are very useful in helping you practice fluidly and smoothly, as they involve a lot of trills and techniques that require you to be agile and quick with your fingers.

You can also work on practicing these Varisai phrases yourself. This involves learning how to sing the various phrases commonly used in this style of music. Once you have learned the basic phrases, you can add a few details to it.

Breathing technique in check

Another critical aspect of practicing these Dhatu Varisai notes is to make sure that you use the correct breathing techniques. Incorrect breathing can often make you feel breathless and tired, making it challenging to sing smoothly.

Find the Right Shruti

Finally, it is also essential to ensure that you are using the right voice when practicing Carnatic Music Dhatu Varisai. This means using a voice that is neither too high nor too low, which has an excellent quality. If you use a voice that is too high or too low, it can often make the music sound forced and unnatural.

Practice in all 3 speeds for better results

You can then add tempo to the exercise and practice in 3 speeds as I have learnt. Once you have nailed the 1st speed, double the tempo with 2 swaras for 1 beat and 3 swaras for 1 beat and enjoy its fruitfulness.

Dhatu Varisai Progression Chart

Level	Exercise Focus	Key Pattern Example	Learning Focus	Approximate Practice Time
Beginner	Basic Dhatu Varisa	Sa Ma, Re Pa, Ga Dha	Pitch Accuracy	2-3 months
Early Intermediate	Complex jumps between swaras	Sa ga, Ma Pa, Re Dha Ni Sa	Vocal agility, Clarity of Raag	3-4 months
Intermediate	Different speeds (kala)	Sa ga, Ma Pa, Re Dha Ni Sa	Control and Swara accuracy	4-5 months
Advanced	Application of Raag	Mixed patterns in different Raag	Improvisation	5-6 months

Origin of Dhatu Varisai in South India

These lessons have its roots in the traditional gurukul system of South India. We may not be entirely sure of the single point of origin, Dhatu varisai fundamental patterns evolved organically as part of pedagogical methods for teaching carnatic music to the local folks. Its development is closely tied to Mayamalavagowla (common raga), which is known for its symmetrical scale making it ideal for beginners.

Famous Compositions Having Carnatic Music Dhatu Varisai

By following these tips, you should be able to practice Dhatu Varisai of carnatic music relatively easily. Just remember to take your own time in focusing on each aspect of the music and also ensure that you are singing it correctly.

Some of the most famous compositions that use the Dhatu Varisai include works by renowned musicians such as Muthuswami Dikshitar, Syama Sastri and Tyagaraja.

One of the essential compositions that utilize this varisai is ‘Suryakantam’ by Muthuswami Dikshitar. This composition is an essential part of the ‘Melakarta’ ragas in Carnatic music.

Another popular composition that uses the Dhatu Varisai lessons is the famous Kriti ‘Neelakantam’ by Syama Sastri. It has become one of the essential works in Carnatic classical music.

Lastly, ‘Thillana Mohanambal’ by Tyagaraja is a well-known composition that uses the Carnatic Music Dhatu Varisai.

In addition to these works, many other compositions use this varisai, further adding its importance in the world of Carnatic music.

Dhatu varisai patterns are more challenging compared to Sarali varisai or Janta Varisai and mastery of this needs more practice from the student’s side. Dhatu Varisai lessons are practiced in Maya Malava Gowlava Raga & Adi Tala (8 beats).

Conclusion

Dhatu Varisai Notation is an important exercise in Carnatic music and should be learned and practiced with proper guidance. A professional Carnatic singing class can help you learn this Raga in the right way and give you access to some of the best teachers in the country.

If you are serious about learning Carnatic music, approach musicmaster institute today.

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