Jatisvaram

Jatisvaram is a form of Carnatic music composition used as a teaching and performance piece. The name derives from jati (rhythmic pattern) and svaram (notes). A jatisvaram typically uses a raga and tala and focuses on rhythmic and melodic patterns built from swaras rather than a prominent poetic text. If text is present, it is often syllabic or nonsensical, serving to accommodate the rhythmic framework rather than convey meaning.

In performance, jatisvarams function as laya training and as a bridge between varnams and kritis. They are usually shorter than varnams and kritis and may be presented in a variety of ragas. They can be composed by various composers and are often treated as standard teaching pieces in many pedagogical contexts. The form is distinguished from varnams by its emphasis on rhythmic play over lyrical elaboration; from kritis by its reduced or absent meaningful text. Jatisvarams remain part of the broader Carnatic music tradition and are commonly included in learning curricula and concert repertoires.