A short cut to master the rhythmic pattern of Indian music

In Indian music, the thalam is the basic rhythmic pattern and the ragam one of over sixty musical scales, with rules for improvisations. This poem describes the Panchari thalam, one of the more popular rhythms used both in music and dance in Kerala. The poem is one among many composed by the great Malayalam literary wit and genius Kunchan Nambiar (1705-1770), who tried to collect and codify the various ragams typical of Kerala. The poet felt that by learning these verses one could master a thalam which would help even with the steps of dancing. The couple of verses rendered in this music give an idea of the Panchari thalam and point out their peculiarities.

Kunchan Nambiar is more popular for his innovative satiric art form Ottanthullal . Ottanthullal reflects his deep sense of social responsibility as it openly criticised the customs, society, individuals and even the rulers of the times. The art form is believed to have been created overnight by the poet.

Music consultant:
Dr. K. Omanakutty, Department of Music, University of Kerala.