Welcome to the Tabla Theka blog, your trusted resource for learning tabla.
An Introduction to Mandakini Chanda Taal
Mandakini Chanda Taal is a unique and poetic 16-beat rhythmic cycle, a jewel from the creative treasury of the great Bengali poet and musician, Kazi Nazrul Islam. This taal is a hallmark of Nazrul Sangeet, blending traditional structures with innovative ideas to create a deeply expressive rhythmic framework.
Watch a Live Demonstration of Mandakini Chanda Taal
The Structure and Characteristics of Mandakini Chanda Taal
Mandakini Chanda Taal consists of 16 matras (beats) organized into five unconventional divisions (vibhags). Its unique asymmetrical structure follows a 6|3|2|3|2 pattern. A key feature is that it has 5 claps (taali) and no wave (khaali), giving it a continuous, forward-moving feel.
| Beats (Matra) | 16 |
|---|---|
| Divisions (Vibhag) | 5 (Pattern: 6|3|2|3|2) |
| Clap (Taali) | 5 (On the 1st, 7th, 10th, 12th, and 15th beats) |
| Wave (Khali) | None |
| First Beat (Sam) | On the 1st beat, marked with an 'X' |
| Common Tempo (Laya) | Medium (Madhya) |
Theka for Mandakini Chanda Taal
The Theka (basic rhythmic pattern) for Mandakini Chanda Taal is as follows, broken down into four rows of four beats for mobile-friendly viewing:
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhina | Dite | Dhina | Dhadhi |
| X (Sam) | |||
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Nadhi | Dhina | Dhage | Dhina |
| 2(Clap) | |||
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| Ghena | Dhina | Ghena | Dhage |
| 3(Clap) | 4(Clap) | ||
| 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Dhina | Ghena | Dhage | Tite |
| 5(Clap) | |||
How to Practice Mandakini Chanda Taal
Mastering this unconventional taal requires breaking it down into manageable parts. Follow these steps:
- Internalize the 6-3-2-3-2 Pulse: This is the most crucial step. Before playing, repeatedly count and clap the divisions aloud: "1-2-3-4-5-6 | 1-2-3 | 1-2 | 1-2-3 | 1-2".
- Practice Each Division Separately: Isolate each of the five vibhags and practice their respective bols slowly until you are comfortable with each segment.
- Combine Divisions Gradually: Once you master the individual parts, start combining them. For example, practice the first two divisions (6+3) together, then the next two, and so on, before playing the full 16-beat cycle.
- Listen to the Original Composition: To truly grasp the feel of this taal, listen carefully to "Jolo Cholo Chol Esho Mondakini" and observe how the rhythm complements the melody.
Usage in Nazrul Sangeet
This beautiful and distinctive taal is intrinsically linked to Nazrul Sangeet. Its primary application is to provide a unique rhythmic foundation for the songs composed by Kazi Nazrul Islam. A famous song composed in this rhythm is:
- "Jolo Cholo Chol Esho Mondakini"
Conclusion
Mandakini Chanda Taal is a testament to Kazi Nazrul Islam's boundless creativity. Its unique 16-beat structure with a 6|3|2|3|2 division offers a flowing, lyrical quality perfect for songs expressing patriotism, love, and devotion. It's a prized element of Nazrul Sangeet, offering a different feel from other 16-beat cycles like the more symmetrical Tritaal.
