Hindustani Music Guide
अस्थायी
An alternate spelling and pronunciation of Sthayi, the opening section of a bandish.
Asthayi is an alternate form of the term Sthayi, referring to the same opening section of a bandish or composition. Both terms are widely used in different teaching and performance traditions. The asthayi establishes the raag's core melodic identity and serves as the anchor point throughout the performance, to which the musician returns after improvised passages.
स्थायी
The opening and principal section of a bandish, establishing the raag and melodic theme.
अंतरा
The second section of a bandish, typically moving into the upper octave register.
संचारी
The third section of a four-part composition, exploring the full range of the raag.
अभोग
The concluding fourth section of a four-part composition, resolving back to the sthayi.