While Khamaj and Bhairab are indeed thaats in Hindustani Sangeet, Kafi is not. It’s often categorized as a raag independently, though it shares strong characteristics with the Bhairab thaat. Here’s a breakdown of the knowledge you requested:
1. Khamaj Thaat:
- Structure: Seven notes – Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni
- Characteristics: Bright, cheerful, optimistic, often associated with mornings and spring.
- Swaras: Features Komal Nishad (Ni), adding a soft and delicate touch.
- Ragas: Yaman, Miyan ki Todi, Bhimpalasi, Basant Bahar are some prominent ragas derived from Khamaj thaat.
2. Bhairab Thaat:
- Structure: Seven notes – Sa, Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni
- Characteristics: Majestic, melancholic, introspective, evokes emotions of depth and intensity.
- Swaras: Features Teevra Ma (Ma), adding drama and intensity.
- Ragas: Bhairavi, Todi, Yaman Kalyan, Jogia are some popular ragas born from Bhairab thaat.
3. Kafi Raag:
- Structure: Seven notes – Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni
- Characteristics: Similar to Bhairab, but slightly lighter and more graceful. Often associated with love, longing, and separation.
- Swaras: Shares the Teevra Ma characteristic of Bhairab.
- Though not technically a thaat, ragas like Yaman and Charukeshi draw elements from Kafi.
