Ektal
A twelve-matra cycle associated with khayal, including slow elaboration.
Notes and identity
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Matras | 12 |
| Vibhags | 6 of 2 (2+2+2+2+2+2) |
| Sam | matra 1 |
| Tali (claps) | matras 1, 5, 9, 11 |
| Khali (wave) | matras 3, 7 |
| Markers | X · 0 · 2 · 0 · 3 · 4 |
| Typical use | vilambit khayal; also madhya/drut |
Theka
A skeletal pattern for following the cycle; accompaniment and bol choices vary with the performance tradition.
| Matra | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol | Dhin |
Dhin |
Dhage |
Tirakita |
Tu |
Na |
Kat |
Ta |
Dhage |
Tirakita |
Dhi |
Na |
| Mark | X |
0 |
2 |
0 |
3 |
4 |
In vilambit, each matra is stretched and the tabla fills between the bols; the skeleton above is the reference.
Counting
Clap on matras 1 (sam), 5, 9, 11; wave (khali) on 3 and 7; finger-count the rest.
Laya & repertoire
Ektal is the classic slow-khayal tala — its 12 matras give room for expansive bol-alap and behlava. It is also played at faster speeds.
Differentiation
- vs Chautal — Chautal is also 12 matras (2×6), but it is a pakhawaj/dhrupad tala with different bols and feel; Ektal is a tabla/khayal tala. A classic 12-beat pair to distinguish.