Question

Which of the following statements about the Khayal style in Hindustani classical music is accurate?

• A. Although attributed to Amir Khusrau, Khayal flourished in the 18th century under Niyamat Khan Sadarang and Adarang.
• B. Khayal is considered a lesser form compared to Dhrupad due to its limited creative scope.
• C. Tansen invented Khayal and tabla, making it the most ancient form of Indian classical music.
• D. Khayal, meaning "melody" in Sanskrit, is strictly bound to long poetic verses without room for improvisation.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Although attributed to Amir Khusrau, Khayal flourished in the 18th century under Niyamat Khan Sadarang and Adarang.

Khayal: Derived from the Persian word meaning "idea" or "imagination," khayal allows greater improvisation and is highly favored by musicians. It consists of short compositions ranging from two to eight lines, commonly referred to as bandish. While its origins are attributed to Amir Khusrau in the 13th century, it reached its peak in the 18th century under Niyamat Khan Sadarang and Adarang. Khayal is now the most prestigious form of Hindustani classical music. Amir Khusrau also played a crucial role in promoting instrumental music, is credited with inventing the sitar and tabla, and introduced new ragas. Most Hindustani musicians trace their lineage to Tansen.