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Khayal, meaning "imagination" in Arabic, is the dominant genre of Hindustani classical vocal music, having emerged as a more flexible and ornamental successor to the austere Dhrupad tradition in the 18th century. Find upcoming Khayal events in London this month below.
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Sound profile
A vocal-driven, underground sound.
Khayal, meaning "imagination" in Arabic, is the dominant genre of Hindustani classical vocal music, having emerged as a more flexible and ornamental successor to the austere Dhrupad tradition in the 18th century. Performances typically center on a lead vocalist accompanied by the melodic support of a harmonium or sarangi, the rhythmic pulse of the tabla, and the meditative drone of the tanpura. The genre is characterized by its two-part structure—the slow, expansive Vilambit and the virtuosic, fast-paced Drut—which allow for extensive improvisation within the framework of a specific raga and tala. Emotionally diverse and intellectually rigorous, khayal bridges the gap between ancient Vedic chant traditions and the expressive lyricism of modern North Indian art music.
Also known as: Khyal