By Santhanam Nagarajan

The great Emperor Akbar heard about the talents of famous musician Tansen (1492-1589 A.D) and invited him to his court. Tansen was given a place of honour among the nine jewels like Birbal, Abdul Fazal,Todarmal and Rahim in Akbar’s court.

Tansen symbolized the best in Hindusthani Music. Tansen with his enchanting music made [...]

SABHA GANA - Kriti
Kriti is the most important form belonging to the Sabha Gana group. There is no concert without it. Though the theme is mostly devotional, it can also be secular. The emphasis is more on the musicality and aesthetic content.

Evolution: Kriti is said to have evolved from the older form, Keertana, which was [...]

ABHYASA GANA - Gita
Gita, literally meaning a song, is the first composition that one learns with lyrics. The lyrics are normally in praise of Gods and Goddesses.

Structure: It is a very simple composition in terms of raga and tala, that a beginner would be able to learn with utmost ease. It sometimes has all the [...]

The Tandava element is divided into