Select the 'Chakra' of Shuddha Madhyam in 72 Mela system?

Question

Accepted Answer

In the 72 Melakarta system of Carnatic music, the "Chakra" refers to a group of six ragas. Each chakra is named and numbered, and the ragas within a chakra share a common set of notes, differing only in the arrangement of the notes. The Shuddha Madhyamam is a specific note used in the Melakarta system, and each chakra is associated with either Shuddha Madhyamam or Prati Madhyamam.

1. **Explanation for Option 1 (Veda):**
   - The 72 Melakarta ragas are divided into 12 chakras, each containing 6 ragas. The first 36 ragas use Shuddha Madhyamam, and the next 36 use Prati Madhyamam.
   - The chakra "Veda" is specifically associated with Shuddha Madhyamam. It is one of the chakras that contain ragas using the Shuddha Madhyamam note.
   - Therefore, Option 1 (Veda) is the correct answer because it correctly identifies the chakra associated with Shuddha Madhyamam in the 72 Melakarta system.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 2 (Vasu):** While "Vasu" is indeed a chakra in the Melakarta system, it is not specifically associated with Shuddha Madhyamam. It may be associated with Prati Madhyamam or another aspect, but it does not fit the criteria of the question.
   - **Option 3 (Rudra):** Similar to Vasu, "Rudra" is another chakra in the Melakarta system. However, it is not the chakra that is specifically linked to Shuddha Madhyamam. It may be associated with a different set of ragas or notes.
   - **Option 4 (Rishi):** "Rishi" is also a chakra within the Melakarta system, but like the others, it does not correspond to the Shuddha Madhyamam. It is associated with a different grouping of ragas.

In conclusion, Option 1 (Veda) is the correct answer because it accurately identifies the chakra associated with Shuddha Madhyamam in the 72 Melakarta system. The other options do not meet the criteria specified in the question.