Varnam

Varnams are sophisticated musical forms that include Swaras and lyrics. For students, they are useful for learning the Swaras of various Ragas, singing in multiple speeds rapidly, as well as learning the appropriate Gamakas. They introduce the proper combinations of Swaras for each Raga and require great discipline for singing. The structure of the Varnam includes Pallavi, Anupallavi, Mukthayi Swaram, Charanam, and multiple Chittaswarams that return to the Charanam. Varnams are usually the first pieces sung in concerts.