Dhamar (form)
A composition type in the dhrupad tradition, associated with Holi and Dhamar tala.
Definition
Dhamar is a composition type in the dhrupad tradition, characteristically set to the 14-matra Dhamar tala and associated with hori — songs of Holi and the play of Krishna and the gopis. It shares dhrupad's weighty style but tends to be more playful and romantic in subject.
Structure & performance
Typically developed through dhrupad-style elaboration, bol-bant and layakari, with pakhawaj accompaniment. This describes an emphasis, not a prohibition on every rapid melodic passage. Often follows or accompanies dhrupad in a recital.
Relationship to raga, tala, tempo
Raga supplies melody; the Dhamar tala supplies the 14-beat cycle; the Holi/hori theme supplies the poetic world. Tempo is a separate axis.