Riṣabha Svara

The note ‘Riṣabha,’ is represented by the syllable ‘Ri’ (R) and it is the higher note closest to Ṣaḍja. According to tradition, the note is heard when a cow moos. The two variants of Riṣabha, lower and higher are known as Ṣuddha Riṣabha, and Catuśśruti Riṣabha in the Karnatak system while the Hindustani system recognizes them as Komal and Śuddha Riṣabha. Both maintain their unique relation with the ‘Adhara Ṣaḍja ’. Komal Riṣabha is a serene note resting close to Ṣaḍja with the power to lift the mood of one in contemplation. Catuśśruti Riṣabha is just a position higher with depth and sonority.