DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAAL AND RHYTHM

Music naturally contains rhythm but rhythmical structures that is taal is the speciality of Indian classical music and dance. Rhythm is the regular movement of time in music and rhythmical structures are manifested on it when it occurs in the form of a cluster of actions. Number of beats represent taal while size of the beat shows rhythm.

Taal is to embellish the rhythm. Rhythm is continuesly going on and taal is imposed on it to beautify and to understand clearly this regular movement of time. Taal divides rhythm in different equal segments which are further divided into different equal or unequal parts according to the taal imposed on it. For eg:

If taal is teentaal then rhythm is divided into equal segments of 16 beats further divided into four equal parts of four beats each.

If taal is dhamaar then rhythm is divided into equal segments of 14 beats further divided into four unequal parts.

All Indian Classicad Dances are based on rhythm and taal. Folk dances and bollywood dances are based on rhythm.

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I belong to the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak, one of the rich classical dance traditions of North India. A Kathak Visharad, I am also trained in Classical Ballet and hold a degree in Economics from Punjabi University.

I currently teach Kathak online through WhatsApp and Zoom, I blend discipline with creativity to help students discover their unique expression. Music is my constant companion—I love playing the piano and violin, which further enriches my understanding of rhythm and movement.

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RHYTHMIC FREQUENCIES: LAYAKAARIS

When the type of rhythm that is the time per beat is same but the words per beat differs then frequencies of rhythm can be revealed. 

These are of many types.

Thaah :Ekgun laya :  When there is only one word in one beat. It is also known as                                           single laya.

Dugun laya:Double rhythym : When there are two words per beat it is known as                                                              double rhythm..

Chaugun laya: Quadruple rhythm :  If there are four words per beat then the                                                                                rhythm is chaugan.

Hence this can be extended to 16 words per beat.

RHYTHM / LAYA

A steady pace of time in music is Rhythm/Laya. It is a regular and continuous movement of time in music and dance.

Rhythm can be measured by clapping at equal intervals.

There are three types of rhythm;

 Vilambit laya

 Madhaya laya

 Drut laya

Vilambit laya:

Slow rhythm : when one beat is of two seconds, it is known as slow rhythm. In kathak dance, Stylised Pose, Entry and Pranaam, these dance pieces are danced in slow rhythm.

Madhaya laya

Medium laya : when one beat is of one second, it is medium laya. All dance pieces after Entry and Pranaam are danced in this laya.

Drut laya

Fast laya : when one beat is only of half second ,it is fast laya.Gat nikaas and Gat bhaav are performed in fast laya. 

KTHAK STYLES/GHARANAS

Kathak is an Indian classical dance developed in north India and is based on north Indian classical music. Anklebells play a very important role in kathak dance. Traditionally Kathak dance was mainly based on Krishana’s and Radha’s dance and was known as Natawari Dance. It is danced in north Indian states like Uttarpradesh, Madhya Pradesh, tRajasthan, Panjab and also in Bengal.

There are three styles of kathak dance known as Kathak Gharanas, each reflecting unique stylistic nuances shaped by the cultural environment of their time.:-

 Jaipur Style

 Lakhanawi Style,

 Benaras Style.

Dancers who performed in the courts of Hindu kings, such as those associated with the Jaipur and Benaras gharanas, emphasized themes rooted in Hindu mythology and spirituality. For instance, the Jaipur Gharana is renowned for its vigorous and powerful performances, often depicting stories of Radha and Krishna, as well as dynamic representations of the Tandav dance of Lord Shiva. In contrast, the Benaras Gharana places a strong emphasis on intricate and detailed footwork, showcasing exceptional rhythmic precision and complexity.

On the other hand, the Lucknow Gharana, which flourished under the patronage of Muslim rulers, adapted its style to suit the refined tastes of the Nawabi courts. It is distinguished by its graceful and delicate movements, known as lasya, which highlight expressive gestures (abhinaya) and subtle storytelling through facial expressions and gentle body language. Each gharana, while preserving the essence of Kathak, reflects a distinct cultural and aesthetic lineage, contributing richly to the diversity and beauty of this classical tradition.

CLASSICAL DANCE AND FOLK DANCE

Dance as an art form expresses ideas and stories/tales through rhythmic movement of the body. Dance represents the aspiration and belief of the people and is an expression of life and aesthetic experience.

CLASSICAL DANCE :Classical dance is considered to be a form of worship and meditation. Classical dance is the dance which is purely based on certain principles originate from scriptures.

FOLK DANCE :Folk dances are generally regional dances of different areas where people dance together in rhythm for the purpose of enjoyment and celeberation. For example Bhangra and Gidhaa are folk dances of Panjab, a state in North India.

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The ocean of dance welcomes all who are willing to dive in with passion. Let the rhythm guide you and enjoy😊.