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Ara Chautaal (14 Beats): Theka & Guide | Tabla Theka

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Introduction to Ara Chautaal

Ara Chautaal, also known as "Ada Chautaal," is a dignified and profound 14-beat rhythmic cycle (taal) in Hindustani classical music. Due to its expansive and symmetrical structure, it is well-suited for slow-tempo (Vilambit Laya) compositions. It provides a broad canvas for artists to elaborate on a raga, making it a favorite for Bada Khayal singing.

Watch a Demonstration of Ara Chautaal

Taal Structure and Characteristics

Ara Chautaal's 14 matras are gracefully arranged into 7 divisions (vibhags), with each division containing 2 beats. This 2|2|2|2|2|2|2 structure is defined by 4 taalis (claps) and 3 khaalis (waves), creating a balanced and majestic rhythmic flow.

Ara Chautaal Characteristics
Taal NameAra Chautaal (Ada Chautaal)
Beats / Matra14
Divisions / Vibagh7 (with a pattern of 2|2|2|2|2|2|2)
Clap / Taali4 (On 1st, 5th, 9th, and 11th beats)
SamOn 1st beat (marked with 'x')
Wave / Khali3 (On 3rd, 7th, and 13th beats)
Tempo / LayaSlow (Vilambit)

Theka Notation for Ara Chautaal

The Theka (basic rhythmic pattern) for Ara Chautaal, following the Bhatkhande notation system, is as follows:

Ara Chautaal Theka (14 Beats)
12
DhinTirekite
X (Sam)
34
DhinNa
0 (Khali)
56
TuNa
2 (Clap)
78
KatTa
0 (Khali)
910
DhinDhin
3 (Clap)
1112
NaDhin
4 (Clap)
1314
DhinNa
0 (Khali)
Taal Sign Explanation

The standard notation symbols help musicians understand the rhythm's structure:

  • Sam (x): The first and most emphasized beat of the cycle.
  • Taali (2, 3, 4): Claps that mark other stressed divisions.
  • Khali (0): The wave of the hand, representing an unstressed division.

Applications in Performance

The stately nature of Ara Chautaal makes it ideal for serious and elaborate forms of classical music:

  • Bada Khyal: It is a primary taal for Vilambit (slow-tempo) Khyal singing.
  • Instrumental Music: Used by soloists on Sitar, Sarod, and Sarangi for slow-paced expositions of a raga.

Conclusion

Ara Chautaal is a cornerstone of Vilambit Laya performance in Hindustani classical music. Its balanced 14-beat cycle offers a stable and grand foundation for deep artistic exploration. Mastering this taal is a significant milestone for any student of classical music.

Explore More Classical Taals

To learn about other 14-beat taals, explore more on our blog:


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