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Understanding Sitarkhani Aad Layakari
In Hindi, "Aad" refers to "one and a half." Aad Layakari is a rhythmic pattern performed at one and a half times the original speed. For example, if the original taal is in a standard time signature, Aad Layakari means playing a pattern of three beats in the time of two, creating a syncopated 1.5x feel.
The Structure of Sitarkhani Taal
Like Teentaal, Sitarkhani has 16 matras divided into four even vibhags of 4 matras each. The pattern of Tali (clap) and Khali (wave) is also the same.
| Beats / Matra | 16 |
|---|---|
| Divisions / Vibagh | 4 (with a pattern of 4 | 4 | 4 | 4) |
| Clap / Taali | 3 (on beats 1, 5, 13) |
| Wave / Khali | 1 (on beat 9) |
| First Beat (Sam) | On the 1st beat |
Basic Theka (Ekgun)
Before diving into Aad Layakari, it's essential to understand the basic theka (Ekgun or single speed) of Sitarkhani Taal. This pattern establishes the foundational groove of the rhythm.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dha | Gedhin | STe | Dha |
| X (Sam) | |||
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Dhage | SDhin | STe | Dha |
| 2 (Clap) | |||
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| Dha | Ketin | STe | Ta |
| 0 (Wave) | |||
| 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Take | SDhin | STe | Dha |
| 3 (Clap) | |||
Aad Layakari Notation
Aad Layakari involves playing three beats in the time of two (a 3:2 ratio). Below are two variations of Aad Layakari for Sitarkhani Taal. The 'S' represents a pause.
Aad Layakari - Variation 1
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dha S Ge | Dhin S Te | Dha S Dha | Ge S Dhin |
| X (Sam) | |||
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| S Te Dha | S Dha S | Ke Tin S | Te Ta S |
| 2 (Clap) | |||
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| Ta Ke S | Dhin S Te | Dha S Dha | S Ge Dhin |
| 0 (Wave) | |||
| 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| S Te Dha | S Dha Ge | S Dhin S | Te Dha S |
| 3 (Clap) | |||
Aad Layakari - Variation 2
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dha S Ke | Tin S Te | Ta S Ta | Ke S Dhin |
| X (Sam) | |||
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| S Te Dha | S Dha S | Ge Dhin S | Te Dha S |
| 2 (Clap) | |||
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
| Dha Ge S | Dhin S Te | Dha S Dha | S Ke Tin |
| 0 (Wave) | |||
| 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| S Te Ta | S Ta Ke | S Dhin S | Te Dha S |
| 3 (Clap) | |||
How to Practice this Layakari
- Master the Recitation (*Padhant*): First, recite the bols aloud while marking the 16-beat cycle with hand claps and waves. This internalizes the rhythm.
- Slow and Steady: Use a metronome at a very slow tempo. Focus on fitting each three-part phrase into a single beat perfectly.
- Respect the Pauses ('S'): The 'S' (*avagraha*) is a rhythmic placeholder and must be given its full time value. Do not rush through the silent parts.
- Instrumental Practice: Once confident with the recitation, apply it to your instrument. Focus on maintaining the groove and producing clear, articulate sounds for each bol.
Conclusion
Sitarkhani Taal, especially when combined with the rhythmic sophistication of Aad Layakari, offers a rich and expressive foundation for performers. Its blend of a steady 16-beat structure with a graceful, syncopated feel makes it a beloved and essential taal in the repertoire of Hindustani classical music.