The Role of Gharana in Shaping Tabla Performance Practice: Tradition, Stylistic Identity, and Contemporary Transformation
Author(s): Vimasen Parida
Authors Affiliations:
Scholar (M.Mus., M.Phil), Department of Tabla, Utkal University of Culture, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202606005 | Paper ID: IJIRMF202606005
The concept of gharana has played an important role in shaping the development and performance practice of tabla in Hindustani classical music. Beyond a hereditary system of musical transmission, gharanas function as stylistic frameworks through which technical knowledge, rhythmic aesthetics, repertoire, and artistic values are preserved across generations. This study examines the role of gharana in shaping tabla performance practice, focusing on technique, tonal production, improvisation, compositional structure, and performance aesthetics. The study explores the historical development of major tabla gharanas—Delhi, Ajrada, Lucknow, Farrukhabad, Benaras, and Punjab—and highlights their distinctive contributions to tabla performance. It further examines the relationship between baaj (style of playing) and gharana identity, demonstrating how lineage-based traditions influence rhythmic interpretation and artistic expression. The study also considers contemporary transformations in gharana practice, where institutional learning, digital access, and intercultural exchange have contributed to greater stylistic interaction among performers. Although strict gharana boundaries have become less rigid in modern performance, their influence remains significant in shaping technical training, musical identity, and performance aesthetics. The study concludes that gharanas continue to function not only as historical traditions but also as evolving artistic frameworks within contemporary tabla performance.
Vimasen Parida (2026); The Role of Gharana in Shaping Tabla Performance Practice: Tradition, Stylistic Identity, and Contemporary Transformation, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-12, Issue-6, Available on – https://www.ijirmf.com/
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