Glossary

Tabla terms at a glance

Quick definitions for common tabla terms. Expand as you add more reference content.

Taal

A rhythmic cycle (e.g., Teentaal 16 beats, Jhaptaal 10 beats).

Sam

First beat of the taal; the point of resolution.

Khali

Empty/unstressed beat section in the taal cycle.

Theka

Basic pattern that defines a taal.

Kaida

Theme-and-variation form built on a fixed phrase.

Tukra

Short composition, often ending on Sam.

Chakradar

Composition played three times, each ending on Sam.