E Kafi Raga
Piano scale diagramIntermediate
E Kafi Raga Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Kafi Raga scale is a romantic and playful Raga that mirrors the Western Dorian mode. On Piano, it contains the notes E, G, G#, A, B, C#, D, D#. 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: E, G, G#, A, B, C#, D, D#
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 E 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 E Kafi Raga scale contains 8 notes (E, G, G#, A, B, C#, D, D#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.