---
title: "Melakarta Raga System: 72 Parent Scales | Model Diplomat"
description: "The Melakarta Raga System classifies 72 parent scales in Carnatic music, essential for students and researchers in music theory and UPSC exams."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/melakarta-raga-system"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Melakarta system is a Carnatic music scheme that classifies 72 parent scales, each containing all seven swaras in a fixed ascending and descending order.
- Why are there exactly 72 melakarta ragas?
- How does the Katapayadi system identify a melakarta's number?
- What is the difference between a melakarta and a janya raga?
- How does the Melakarta system differ from the Hindustani thaat system?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The Melakarta system is a Carnatic music scheme that classifies 72 parent scales, each containing all seven swaras in a fixed ascending and descending order.

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In 1620, Venkatamakhin set out the complete 72-scale framework in his treatise Chaturdandi Prakasika at the Nayak court in Thanjavur, fixing the mathematical basis of Carnatic music classification used today.

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