* No Fixed List: Unlike a musical scale with a set number of notes, ragas are theoretical frameworks based on specific rules for melodic movement. New ragas are constantly being created and developed.
* Regional Variations: Raga classifications differ depending on the musical tradition (Hindustani or Carnatic) and even within those, there are variations across different regions and Gharanas (schools of music).
* Focus on Melodic Structure: The emphasis is on the melodic structure of the raga, not on a specific numerical count.
Estimates and Common Mentions:
* Hindustani Music: Some texts mention over 1000 ragas, but many are not actively performed or known. It's more common to talk about the main ragas (like Bhairavi, Todi, Darbari Kanada) and their variations.
* Carnatic Music: Carnatic music uses a system of 72 melakarta ragas (parent ragas), from which other ragas are derived. This system is more structured, but again, it's the principles of the melodic framework that are important.
In summary: There is no fixed number of ragas in Sangeetam. The focus is on understanding the theoretical frameworks, their melodic rules, and their rich musical possibilities, rather than counting them.