Taal Directory
Browse Hindustani taals
Each taal page focuses on cycle length, vibhag, theka, claps, waves, and learner-oriented explanation so rhythmic structure stays readable.
Featured taals
Dadra
A compact and commonly heard taal in light-classical, semi-classical, and song forms.
Matras: 6
Vibhag: 3 + 3
Keherwa
Also: Kaherva
An 8-matra taal that is one of the most commonly heard rhythmic cycles in light-classical, folk, devotional, and popular music across North India.
Matras: 8
Vibhag: 4 + 4
Jhaptaal
A 10-matra taal known for its asymmetrical gait and strong pedagogical value.
Matras: 10
Vibhag: 2 + 3 + 2 + 3
Ektaal
A 12-matra taal used in vilambit and madhya laya settings, especially in khayal performance.
Matras: 12
Vibhag: 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2
Teentaal
Also: Tritaal
A foundational 16-matra taal widely used in khayal, instrumental, and teaching contexts.
Matras: 16
Vibhag: 4 + 4 + 4 + 4
All taals
Rupak
Also: Roopak
A graceful 7-matra taal with a distinctive opening khali and lyrical flow.
Matras: 7
Vibhag: 3 + 2 + 2
Tevra
A 7-matra taal sharing the same matra count as Rupak but with a different vibhag structure and theka, giving it a distinct rhythmic identity.
Matras: 7
Vibhag: 3 + 2 + 2
Sooltaal
Also: Sultaal
A 10-matra taal used in dhrupad contexts, structured in five equal divisions with a strong, martial rhythmic personality.
Matras: 10
Vibhag: 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2
Chautaal
Also: Chartaal
A 12-matra taal with six equal vibhags, widely used in dhrupad performance and considered one of the older taal structures.
Matras: 12
Vibhag: 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2
Addha Trital
Also: Ada Chautaal
A 14-matra taal sometimes encountered in traditional and pedagogical settings, with an asymmetric opening vibhag that creates a distinctive rhythmic momentum.
Matras: 14
Vibhag: 2 + 4 + 4 + 4
Chanchar
Also: Chanchal
A 14-matra taal with a lively, energetic character, sometimes used in lighter classical and devotional music contexts.
Matras: 14
Vibhag: 3 + 4 + 3 + 4
Deepchandi
Also: Dipchandi
A 14-matra taal often associated with thumri, dadra, and lighter classical forms, known for its graceful and lilting rhythmic character.
Matras: 14
Vibhag: 3 + 4 + 3 + 4
Dhamar
A 14-matra taal historically associated with the dhrupad tradition and the Holi festival's dhamar compositions.
Matras: 14
Vibhag: 5 + 2 + 3 + 4
Jhoomra
A 14-matra taal used in vilambit khayal, known for its slow, stately unfolding and meditative rhythmic character.
Matras: 14
Vibhag: 3 + 4 + 3 + 4
Pancham Sawari
A 15-matra taal that is relatively rare in standard concert repertoire, known for its unusual cycle length and the challenge it poses to performers and listeners alike.
Matras: 15
Vibhag: 3 + 4 + 4 + 4
Tilwada
Also: Tilwara
A 16-matra taal favored in vilambit khayal for its spacious, flowing character and gentle rhythmic pulse.
Matras: 16
Vibhag: 4 + 4 + 4 + 4