C Kafi Raga
Piano scale diagramIntermediate
C Kafi Raga Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C Kafi Raga scale is a romantic and playful Raga that mirrors the Western Dorian mode. On Piano, it contains the notes C, Eb, E, F, G, A, Bb, B. It is welcoming and accessible, often used in folk-inspired classical music to express joy and lightheartedness. Commonly used in Indian Classical, Folk, World, Fusion. Notable players include Ali Akbar Khan, Zakir Hussain. Use over m7 chords — identical to Dorian usage. The most 'jazz-friendly' raga for fusion experimentation.
Notes: C, Eb, E, F, G, A, Bb, B
Intervals: 1P, 3m, 3M, 4P, 5P, 6M, 7m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 5 6 b7 8
Formula: WH-H-H-W-W-H-H-H
Number of notes: 8
Musical Character
Mirrors the Western Dorian mode — making it the most accessible raga for Western guitarists. Its romantic quality makes it a natural bridge between Indian and jazz traditions.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Indian Classical, Folk, World, Fusion
Notable players: Ali Akbar Khan, Zakir Hussain
How to Use the C Kafi Raga Scale
Use over m7 chords — identical to Dorian usage. The most 'jazz-friendly' raga for fusion experimentation.
Origin & Background
One of the ten fundamental thaats in Hindustani music. Mirrors the Western Dorian mode, making it a natural bridge for cross-cultural fusion.
Related Scales
The C Kafi Raga scale contains 8 notes (C, Eb, E, F, G, A, Bb, B). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.