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Hindustani Classical

Tradition

Hindustani Classical

Part of Vocal

Indian classical vocal music, or gita, treats the human voice as the primary instrument, shaping raga, tala, and lyric across the Carnatic and Hindustani traditions through forms from dhrupad to khayal.

Dhrupad

Dhrupad is the most ancient surviving Hindustani vocal form, emphasising raga purity and extended alap over virtuosic display, with roots in temple devotion and Mughal court patronage.

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Dhamar

Dhamar is a vocal form related to dhrupad, set in the lilting 14-beat dhamar tala, with compositions describing Krishna's Holi celebrations and playful themes.

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Khayal

Khayal is the dominant vocal genre of Hindustani classical music, balancing composed bandish with extensive improvisation, named for the Arabic/Persian word meaning imagination.

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Tarana

Tarana is a fast-tempo vocal form using rhythmic syllables rather than meaningful text, showcasing vocal agility and serving as an energetic conclusion to khayal concerts.

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Thumri

Thumri is a semi-classical vocal genre exploring romantic and devotional themes with melodic freedom beyond khayal, associated with the courtesan culture of Lucknow and Varanasi.

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Dadra

Dadra is a light classical vocal form set in the six-beat dadra tala, sharing themes with thumri but featuring faster, more dance-like rhythm and lighter melodic treatment.

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Featured Artists

Renowned performers of this discipline

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Audio and video performances

Ram Chandra Chadhyo Hai Trikut Par | Pt. Premkumar Mallick | Dhrupad Vocal

Live Performance