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Unveiling the Rhythmic Marvels: Exploring Alankarams in Indian Classical Music


Welcome to all the music learners out there! Today, we are going to talk about a fundamental aspect of Indian classical music called Alankarams. Alankarams are the arrangement of swaras or musical notes in different thalas, particularly in Sunadhi-saptha thalas, along with their permutation and combination. These Alankarams are essential for a better understanding of Indian classical music.


Alankarams are composed of seven principle thalas, known as Sunadhi-saptha thalas. Each of these thalas has five varieties based on laghu jathi vedha. Jathi is a variety of counting in a laghu, which is an anga or part of the thala. The five jathis are Thisra Jathi, Chathurasra Jathi, Kanda Jathi, Misra Jathi, and Sankeerna Jathi.


The diversity of thalas is enhanced because of these five jathis. The different combinations of these jathis with the seven principal thalas create various rhythms and patterns, which are the backbone of Indian classical music.


Let's have a quick look at the presumptions regarding these seven thalas, unless otherwise stated:

  1. Thala-1 Dhruva thala means Chathurasra jathi dhruva thala.

  2. Thala-2 Matya thala means Chathurasra jathi matya thala.

  3. Thala-3 Rupaka thala means Chathurasra jathi rupaka thala.

  4. Thala-4 Jhampe thala means Misra jathi jhampe thala.

  5. Thala-5 Triputa thala means Tisra jathi triputa thala.

  6. Thala-6 Ata thala means Kanda jathi ata thala.

  7. Thala-7 Eka thala means Chathurasra jathi eka thala.

In conclusion, Alankarams are the foundation of Indian classical music. A good understanding of these thalas and jathis is essential to learn and appreciate Indian classical music fully. By practicing these rhythms and patterns, you can improve your musical skills and take your music to the next level. So, start your Alankaram practice today and experience the beauty of Indian classical music!

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