Khayal (English)

V D Mannan January 03, 2024

Khayal

Khayal is a Persian word which means imagination. When a singer, following the rules of a raga, presents a beautiful composition by decorating it with aalap, taan, khatka, murki, alankars etc., it is called khayal.

In Khayal singing, emphasis is laid on cleanliness of the notes (Swar) and preparation of the throat. Gamak is not used in the same way as Dhrupad. Shringaar Rasa predominates in this.

Types of Khayal:-

There are two types of thoughts (Khayal) – delayed thoughts and immediate thoughts.

(1) Delayed or major Khayal:-

It is said that it was composed by Sultan Hussain Sharqi, the king of Jaunpur in the 15th century. It is sung in slow tempo in rhythms like Ek Taal, Tilwada Taal, Jhap Taal etc. Its nature is serious. In this, there are less words and after the song there is a permanent interlude and there is dialogue. Then chants (Taan) are sung in 4 or 8 Gunas.

(2.) Drut or small Khayal:-

It is said that Chhote Khayal was composed by Amir Khusro in the 14th century on the basis of Qawwali. The name suggests that it is sung in fast or fast tempo in beats like Teen taal, Ek taal, jhaptaal etc. Its nature is fickle. This poem is very short. In this there is predominance of makeup and compassion. After singing the alap, the rhythm (Laya) is increased and taunts (Taan) are sung in Dugun, Chaugun and Eightgun.