Question

Write the names of the sections of a Kriti.

Hint:

Some Kritis have multiple Charanams of equal length, but modern performance usually selects only one or two to maintain concert pacing.

Answer 1

Step 1: Concept
The Kriti is the most prominent, highly developed classical composition format in Carnatic music. It comprises distinct structural divisions.


Step 2: Three Core Sections
A standard, complete Kriti contains three main sections:
1. Pallavi: The opening section, serving as the musical and lyrical refrain. It contains the core theme, is positioned in the middle octave, and is sung repeatedly after other sections.
2. Anupallavi: The second section, which acts as a melodic expansion, typically scaling into the higher octave (Tara Sthayi). It provides a contrast to the Pallavi and is usually equal in length.
3. Charanam: The third and longest section. It blends the melodic nuances of both the Pallavi and Anupallavi. It contains detailed lyrics and concludes with the composer's signature (Mudra).


Step 3: Auxiliary Sections (Embellishments)
Some complex Kritis may also incorporate:
- Chittaswara: Solfa passages sung at the end of the Anupallavi or Charanam.
- Madhyamakala Sahitya: Lyrics set to a fast, medium-tempo pace at the end of a section.
Final Answer: The core sections of a Kriti are the Pallavi (refrain), Anupallavi (second part/contrast), and Charanam (stanzas/conclusion).