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.