The Farmashi Chakradhar is a stunning and complex composition in tabla, traditionally played in Jhaptal (a 10-beat rhythmic cycle). It is a part of the classical tabla repertoire and showcases the player’s technical finesse, creativity, and understanding of intricate rhythmic patterns. Here’s a breakdown of this composition:
Understanding the Farmashi Chakradhar
- Chakradhar: The term refers to a rhythmic composition that is repeated three times (chakradhar means “circular” in Sanskrit). These repetitions are designed to end precisely on the sam (the first beat of the taal).
- Farmashi: A decorative style that involves complex and aesthetically pleasing phrases. It is crafted to sound intricate yet harmonious.
- Jhaptal: This taal has 10 beats, divided into four segments as follows:
- 2 + 3 + 2 + 3 (Dhin | Na | Dhin Dhin | Na | Tin | Na | Dhin Dhin | Na).
Structural Features of the Composition
- Bol Patterns: Farmashi Chakradhars typically use ornate and fast-paced bols (tabla syllables) such as dha, tira-kita, dhi-na-ge-na, and others.
- Placement: Each cycle is calculated carefully to maintain symmetry, ensuring that the sam is emphasized during the third repetition.
- Mathematical Precision: Timing is crucial, requiring the tabla player to maintain focus and consistency throughout.
Farmashi Chakradhar in Action
When played in Jhaptal, a Farmashi Chakradhar may look and sound like this (notation example for illustrative purposes):
FARMASHI CHAKRADAR PRAN IN JHAP TAAL
| DHAGETITE TAGETITE X | DHAGETITE TAGETITE KRIDHATITE 2 |
| DHAGETITE GADIGANA 0 | NAGETITE GADIGANA DHADHA 3 |
| DHA GADIGANA X | DHADHA DHA GADIGAN 2 |
| DHADHA DHA 0 | DHAGETITE TAGETITE DHAGETITE 3 |
| TAGETITE KRIDHATITE X | DHAGETITE GADIGANA NAGETITE 2 |
| GADIGANA DHADHA 0 | DHA GADIGANA DHADHA 3 |
| DHA GADIGANA X | DHADHA DHA DHAGETITE 2 |
| TAGETITE DHAGETITE 0 | TAGETITE KRIDHATITE DHAGETITE 3 |
| GADIGANA NAGETITE X | GADIGANA DHADHA DHA 2 |
| GADIGANA DHADHA 0 | DHA GADIGANA DHADHA 3 |
Each line contains intricate phrases that are looped thrice, with the final stroke resolving powerfully on the sam.
What Makes It Unique?
- The decorative nature of the bols makes it stand out compared to simpler chakradhars.
- Its alignment with Jhaptal’s unique rhythm requires the tabla player to navigate through different dynamics and syncopations with fluidity.
Experience It!
To truly grasp the magic of a Farmashi Chakradhar, listening to a performance is essential. Here’s a list of masters who excel in such compositions:
- Ustad Zakir Hussain
- Pandit Anindo Chatterjee
- Pandit Kumar Bose
How to Learn It?
If you’re a tabla student eager to practice Farmashi Chakradhar, focus on:
- Mastering Jhaptal thoroughly.
- Practicing slow and steady repetitions of complex bols.
- Working on precise timing and clarity for each stroke.
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