The 6 Tabla Gharanas: A Complete Guide | Tabla Theka

Introduction to Tabla Gharanas

In the world of Indian classical music, a Gharana is more than just a style of playing; it is a rich tradition, a lineage passed down from master to student through generations. For the Tabla, a Gharana represents a unique artistic identity, shaped by the culture of a region, its musical needs, and the creative genius of legendary masters.

Each Gharana has its own distinct vocabulary of bols (strokes), compositions, and playing techniques that set it apart. In this special feature, we embark on a journey to explore the history and artistic characteristics of the six major Gharanas of Tabla.

1. Delhi Gharana: The Original Path

Origin: The Delhi Gharana is widely regarded as the first and oldest school of Tabla. It was founded in the 18th century by Ustad Siddhar Khan Dhadi, who is often revered as the "Father of Tabla." The style was developed to accompany the delicate and intricate art of Khayal singing.

Playing Style: Its hallmark is a sophisticated and refined technique, known as the ‘Do Ungliyon ka Baj’ (the style of two fingers). The emphasis is on artistry over power, with a focus on the clear, crisp sounds produced on the edge (Kinar or Chati) of the drumhead.

• Signature Bols: Delicate and closed bols like Dhati, Tit, Tirkit, and Trak.
• Famous Players: Ustad Nathu Khan, Ustad Inayat Khan, Ustad Lateef Ahmed Khan, and Ustad Shafaat Ahmed Khan.

2. Ajrara Gharana: Rhythmic Complexity

Origin: This Gharana is an offshoot of the Delhi school, founded by Kallu Khan and Meeru Khan, who were disciples from the Delhi lineage.

Playing Style: The Ajrara Gharana is famous for its highly complex and mathematical rhythmic patterns (Layakari). It is particularly known for its intricate work in ‘Aad Laya’ (1.5 speed). The style is slightly more powerful than Delhi's but not as open as Lucknow's.

• Signature Bols: The use of bols like Dhagetit and Nagetit defines this Gharana.
• Famous Players: Ustad Habibuddin Khan, Ustad Niyazu Khan, and Ustad Akram Khan.

3. Lucknow Gharana: The Powerful Sound

Origin: Ustad Miyan Bakshu Khan and Ustad Modu Khan from the Delhi Gharana established this school in Lucknow. Its powerful style was born out of the need to accompany the dynamic Kathak dance form.

Playing Style: Known as the ‘Khule Haath ka Baj’ (the style of the open hand), this Gharana uses the full palm and slaps (Thaap) to produce a forceful and resonant tone. It is designed to project sound in large courtly gatherings.

• Signature Bols: Strong applications of Dha, Gin, Trak, and resonant bols like Dhagetit and Tikradha.
• Famous Players: Ustad Modu Khan, Ustad Bakshu Khan, and the legendary Ustad Afaq Hussain Khan.

4. Farrukhabad Gharana: The Melodious Flow

Origin: This is a branch of the Lucknow Gharana, founded by Ustad Haji Vilayat Ali Khan.

Playing Style: The Farrukhabad Gharana is known for its melodious and flowing style. It has a vast and rich repertoire of a composition called ‘Gat’. Its playing style is a beautiful blend of Delhi's subtlety and Lucknow's power.

• Signature Bols: Lyrical bols like Dhingin, Dhadhin, and Dhadan are characteristic of this Gharana.
• Famous Players: The legendary Ustad Ahmedjan Thirakwa, Ustad Ameer Hussain Khan, and Ustad Keramatullah Khan.

5. Benaras Gharana: The Resonant Style

Origin: This Gharana was founded by the great Pandit Ram Sahai. The spiritual atmosphere of Benaras (Varanasi) and the need to accompany semi-classical forms like Thumri gave birth to its unique style.

Playing Style: The main feature of the Benaras Gharana is its powerful and resonant Na bol, played on the edge of the drumhead. Solo performance is a very important aspect of this Gharana, and it shows some influence from the Pakhawaj.

• Signature Bols: Special bols like Dhirdhir, Kinaan, and the strong, resonant use of Na.
• Famous Players: The legendary Pandit Anokhelal Mishra, Pandit Kanthe Maharaj, Pandit Kishen Maharaj, and Pandit Samta Prasad.

6. Punjab Gharana: The Pakhawaj Legacy

Origin: This Gharana is the most heavily influenced by the Pakhawaj drum. Lala Bhawanidas is considered to be its founding guru.

Playing Style: The Punjab style is very powerful, forceful, and rich with complex rhythmic patterns. It directly incorporates many open bols and structures from the Pakhawaj, making it extremely well-suited for solo performances.

• Signature Bols: Pakhawaj-inspired bols like Dhada, Gin, and Dhumkit define this Gharana.
• Famous Players: The legendary Ustad Alla Rakha, and one of the greatest Tabla players in the world today, Ustad Zakir Hussain.

Gharanas at a Glance

Conclusion: A Rhythmic Heritage

The six major Gharanas of Tabla are like six distinct rivers flowing into the same ocean of rhythm. Each school has enriched the art of Tabla playing with its unique style and tradition. Today, many artists blend elements from different Gharanas to create their own individual style, which is a testament to the living and evolving nature of this great art form.