The Rhythmic Remedy: Unpacking the Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal-12 Beat
There are moments in tabla where rhythm becomes more than sound — it transforms into a prescription of power, precision, and poetry. One such rhythmic gem is the Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal, a dynamic 12-beat cycle. This composition is not just a tukda — it’s a full-blown percussive treatment. Whether you’re a tabla student, enthusiast, or curious rhythm explorer, this is your guide to decoding this fascinating piece.
🪘 What is a Tukda?
In tabla terminology, a tukda is a short, fixed composition that typically ends with a tihai (a rhythmic phrase repeated three times). Tukdas are often played at the end of a solo or within an improvisational section to wrap up with flair. Think of them as rhythmic punctuation — bold, deliberate, and satisfying.
The “Pharmacy Tukda” is a contemporary or stylized tukda with unique phrasing, popular in tabla pedagogy and performance. The name “pharmacy” may sound unusual, but it reflects a trend in Indian classical music where certain compositions are named for their vibe or metaphorical “power” — this tukda is considered potent, like medicine.
📜 What is Chautaal?
Chautaal (also spelled Chowtal) is a 12-beat rhythmic cycle commonly used in Pakhawaj and tabla solo performances. It has a strong symmetrical structure that provides a canvas for intricate compositions. Here’s how it breaks down:
🧩 Chautaal Structure:
| Matras | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claps | X | O | X | O | X | O |
- X = Clap (sam or tali)
- O = Khali (wave)
This structure allows a tukda to “play” with the tension and release of rhythmic stress points, making the composition more dramatic.
💊 The Pharmacy Tukda: A Breakdown
Here is one popular version of the Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal:
🔠 Composition (Bols):
nginxCopyEditDha - S S S | Dha - Dha - | Tun - Tun - | Na - Na - |
Dha - Ge Na | Dha - Ti Ta | Takita Dhi | Na - |
Tirakita Dha | Tirakita Dha | Ge Na - | TiTaKat |
Tigda Dhumkit | Dha Ge Na |||
(End with a chakradhar tihai or standard tihai, depending on performance context.)
🎧 Interpretation:
- The tukda starts with a bold and open phrasing, establishing a commanding presence.
- It then builds momentum with Tirakita and TiTaKat, adding texture and speed.
- It concludes with a tight tihai, designed to land perfectly on the sam (beat 1).
This tukda is often taught as a show-stopper — a piece that both challenges and entertains. The nickname “Pharmacy” hints at its therapeutic precision and explosive energy.
🎼 Hear It in Action!
Here’s a fantastic rendition of the Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal by a tabla student from Benares Gharana: (Insert actual link to a tabla performance)
Notice how the artist maintains clarity in the bols, even as the composition speeds up. That’s the hallmark of a great tukda: power with precision.
🧙♂️ A Bit of Gharana Lore
The Pharmacy Tukda has become especially popular among Benares and Delhi gharanas, known for their bold, clear, and dynamic playing styles. Some teachers humorously refer to it as a “medicine” for weak rhythm — once you learn to play it well, your timing, clarity, and confidence improve dramatically.
Tabla maestro Pandit Kumar Bose and Pandit Suresh Talwalkar have been known to include similar high-impact tukdas in their performances, making them memorable for audiences.
📊 Why It Matters
- Performance Appeal: It’s a crowd-pleaser. Audiences love the surprise and flair of a good tihai.
- Technical Training: It refines hand coordination, speed control, and taal awareness.
- Cultural Legacy: The naming and structure reflect how classical music evolves while staying rooted in tradition.
🧠 Quick Quiz: Are You a Tukda Master?
Which of these is true about Chautaal?
A. It has 10 beats
B. It has 12 beats and 3 claps
C. It’s only used in bhajans
D. It ends on beat 4
👉 Answer: B. Chautaal has 12 beats with 3 claps and 1 wave.
📣 Poll: What’s Your Favorite Tabla Composition?
🔘 Theka in Teentaal
🔘 Rela in Jhaptal
🔘 Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal
🔘 Kaida in Rupak
🎬 Want to Learn It?
Check out these free tutorials:
- https://www.youtube.com/@tablanawazacademy-com
🎤 Final Thoughts
The Pharmacy Tukda in Chautaal is more than a rhythmic trick — it’s a vibrant example of how tradition and creativity merge in tabla. With every Dha, Tirakita, and Tihai, it heals our sense of rhythm and sharpens our musical mind.
Whether you’re a performer or a listener, let this rhythmic remedy move you.
🎵 Now it’s your turn: Can you play it? Can you feel it?
https://www.youtube.com/@BhagawanSingh
