* Ragam refers to a melodic framework, a scale with specific rules about which notes can be used and how they are arranged. It's like a musical blueprint that sets the mood and character of a piece. It's closest to the English term "mode" used in Western music, but it's more complex and nuanced.
* Thalam (also spelled talam) refers to the rhythmic cycle, the pattern of beats that governs the duration and structure of the music. It's similar to the concept of "meter" in Western music.
To convey the meaning of "ragam" and "thalam" in English, it's often necessary to use descriptive phrases:
* Ragam: melodic framework, musical mode, scale with specific rules
* Thalam: rhythmic cycle, meter, beat pattern
You could also use the terms "ragam" and "thalam" themselves, as they are becoming increasingly recognized in English music terminology, especially in the context of Indian classical music.