Perhaps the conventional inclusion of footnotes and a bibliography would've helped readers. Especially since the learned author's already created a dictionary of Indian music terms. But again, this exclusion might've been a conscious decision, made to complement the emotive, lyrical style of writing as opposed to a more factual, prosaic style. In which case, I'd say read on, because I'm certain that some of the lines will haunt you as you let yourself experience the magic of the raga in future performances of Indian music.