Tabla Performance

No one can deny that hobby classes in Sahyadri are a huge success. One of these are the Tabla hobby classes. In these classes, students master playing the tabla at various levels. It starts with something as simple as ‘dha dhin dhin dha’ and slowly grows into something beautiful. There are many ways in which a tabla can be presented; it can be presented as an accompaniment instrument as well as a solo.

The students decided to share their skills with the rest of the students by way of solo performances as this would allow more space for their creativity. The presentation was divided in between two batches; the junior and the senior. The junior batch consisted of Kahan, Dharam, Ailesh, Snehamoy and Yug while Reyansh, Ekaarth and Jai formed the senior batch.

Their presentation consisted of 5 pieces - Mukhda, Kaida, Rela, Tukda and Tihai. They started with a Mukhda, which is the start of any solo piece. It was followed by a ‘Kaida’, as the name suggests it is a long piece with many rules and regulations to follow while playing. Next was an interesting fast paced piece known as Rela, their skill and enjoyment was evident while playing. Thereafter, an array of different sounds were played like the te-te of the Syahi or the sharp chat-chat sounds of the Chati, which was delightful to listen to. Lastly, to conclude a cycle of the same notes were played thrice. Later, by talking to one of them, I found out that this was known as Tihai.

This performance wasn’t just a one day thing. According to Ekarth, “We prepared for a month, one hour twice a week and 30 - 45 mins almost every night.” This month was a cherishable and extremely immersive journey for them. Additionally, this occasion also allowed for a stronger bond to forge between the two batches.

As a viewer I enjoyed it a lot!