Keherwa

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
Theka: Dha Ge Na Ti | Na Ke Dhi Na
Clap pattern: Clap on 1; wave on 5.

How to hear it

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.

Learner notes

Extremely versatile and widely recognized. Its simple two-part structure makes it the backbone of thumri, bhajan, qawwali, and many film songs. Often the first taal a casual listener can feel.

Bandishes in Keherwa

Traditional compositions set to this taal.

Jamuna Ke Teer

Madhya

Raag Desh

Jamuna ke teer mohan khelat hori, rang barse gulal udi

Jamuna Kinare Mora Gaon

Madhya

Raag Bhairavi

Jamuna kinare mora gaon re, nand ke chhore se preet lagaye

Mora Piya Ghar Aaye

Madhya

Raag Sindhi Bhairavi

Mora piya ghar aaye, man mein anand chhaye

Piya Bina Nahi Aavat Chain

Madhya

Raag Kafi

Piya bina nahi aavat chain, jiya mora ghabraye