A "raga" is a framework for musical improvisation in Indian classical music. It consists of a specific set of notes and rules that guide the musician in creating melodies. Each raga is associated with particular emotions, times of day, or seasons, allowing performers to evoke specific feelings in their audience. Ragas are often performed on instruments like the sitar or sarod, and can also be sung. The performance of a raga typically includes an introduction, followed by improvisation and variations, showcasing the artist's creativity while adhering to the raga's structure.