It is a Janya ragam (derived from a parent raga), known for its quick movements, especially in the upper octave. Lalgudi G. Jayaraman's Desh Thillana Notation (Adi Talam)
Before diving into the notations, it is essential to understand the melodic framework of the composition. Ragam Desh is an Audava-Sampoorna raga (it features 5 notes in the ascent and all 7 notes in the descent). Borrowed from Hindustani music, this raga evokes feelings of devotion, romance, and celebration. Scale of Ragam Desh: S R₂ M₁ P N₃ Ṡ Avarohanam (Descent): Ṡ N₂ D₂ P M₁ G₃ R₂ S
Dhim Tana Na Na, Dhim Tana Na Na Dhir Dhir Dhum Dhum, Dhum Dhum Dhir Dhir
Below is a standard transliteration of the . Note: In text form, vertical bars | denote bar lines separating the 4, 2, and 2 beat sections of the Adi Tala cycle. A semicolon ; indicates a rest or pause.
Taka dhim tadhim nadrudhim tatom dru dhim dhirana tana dhirana Built around rhythmic syllables ( jathis ).
The , specifically the one composed by the legendary violinist Lalgudi G. Jayaraman , is one of the most celebrated rhythmic compositions in the Carnatic music tradition. A Thillana is a lively, fast-paced piece typically performed at the conclusion of a music or dance recital (such as Bharatanatyam ) to create an energetic and uplifting finale. Composition Overview
The Pallavi is pure jathi (rhythmic syllables). The magic of Lalgudi’s composition is how the solkattu (percussion syllables) mimic the vocal melody.
The lyrics often describe devotion or beauty, such as: "Tanjam nin padam dayala ini anjel endrutharavodurulvai" . It concludes with a signature Swara-Jathi passage where melodic notes ( ) blend with rhythmic syllables. Significance in Performance Tillana Raaga: Desh - SRGM
Lalgudi Jayaraman, a legendary violinist and composer, was a modern master of the thillana form. He composed over 50 thillanas, including the famous one in Desh raga, which is the subject of this article.
Lalgudi’s Thillana is meant to be sung in First Speed (one note per beat) and Second Speed (double notes per beat).
| | 2 Beats | 2 Beats | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Pa – ; – M – P – | D – P – | M – G – R – S – | | S – R – M – P – | N – S’ – | ; – ; – | | N – S’ – R’ – S’ – | N – D – P – | M – G – R – S – |
The notation typically follows the standard Thillana structure: Anupallavi kalyanikalamandir.com 1. Pallavi (Rhythmic Syllables) Starts with the characteristic rhythmic phrasing: