scale
Fretboard diagram
G kafi raga scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized G kafi raga scale yields a warm, romantic chord family that mirrors Western Dorian harmony with an Indian character. The chords from G kafi raga are G major, Bb (1-2-♭5), B diminished, C (1-3-♭5), D (1-♭3-4), E (1-2-♭5), F (1-2-♭5), F# (1-3-♭5). The accessible, joyful chord colors make this family welcoming and versatile. Use these chords for folk-inspired compositions that need a warm, playful quality. Commonly used in Indian Classical, Folk, World, Fusion. Notable players include Ali Akbar Khan, Zakir Hussain.
The G kafi raga scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭3 3 4 5 6 ♭7 7.
Intervals: 3H-H-H-W-W-H-H-H.
Diatonic chords: G major, Bb (1-2-♭5), B diminished, C (1-3-♭5), D (1-♭3-4), E (1-2-♭5), F (1-2-♭5), F# (1-3-♭5).
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | G major |
| ii | Bb (1-2-♭5) |
| iii | B diminished |
| IV | C (1-3-♭5) |
| V | D (1-♭3-4) |
| vi | E (1-2-♭5) |
| vii° | F (1-2-♭5) |
| 8 | F# (1-3-♭5) |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (G major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Bb (1-2-♭5)) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (B diminished) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (C (1-3-♭5)) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (D (1-♭3-4)) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (E (1-2-♭5)) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (F (1-2-♭5)) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the G kafi raga scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the G kafi raga scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m7 chords — identical to Dorian usage. The most 'jazz-friendly' raga for fusion experimentation.