Hindustani Music Guide
गमक
A heavy oscillatory ornament where each note is approached with forceful emphasis.
Gamak is a powerful ornamental technique in which notes are rendered with a strong, heavy oscillation or shake, giving each swara a forceful and weighty presence. Unlike the gentle meend, gamak involves vigorous movement between adjacent notes, creating a sense of intensity and grandeur. It is particularly prominent in the Agra gharana and dhrupad traditions.
तान
Fast melodic runs and passages used to elaborate a raag with virtuosic energy.
मींड
A continuous glide from one note to another, essential for expressing raag character.
खटका
A sharp, jerky ornamental figure that adds rhythmic bite to melodic phrases.
ध्रुपद
The oldest surviving form of Hindustani classical vocal music, emphasizing gravity and precision.