The Delhi or Dilli Gharana, is a tabla discipleship tradition known for being the oldest.[1] This tradition was founded by Sidhar Khan Dhadi in the early-18th Century. The tradition is regarded for establishing a distinction from pakhawaj repertoire, "do ungliyon ka baaj" (two-finger style), and contributing improvisation conventions like peshkar and kayada.[2] Heirs of this gharana went on to establish other traditions like Lucknow gharana, Ajrada gharana, and Farukhabad gharana.
Delhi Gharana was founded by Dhadi in the early-18th Century. Sometimes referred to as the inventor of the tabla,[3] Sidhar Khan Dhadi is the earliest available name associated with tabla in historical records.[4] He was initially a pakhawaj player from the tradition of Lala Bhavanidas.
Considered a moderately resonant style (like Ajrada), the Delhi gharana is classified with the "bandh baaj" (closed style) rather than the "khula baaj" (open style) of Punjab and Farukhabad.[5]
Delhi gharana is reputed for its vast repertoire of kayadas.
Delhi gharana values sound quality that:[6]
Sidhar Khan Dhadi and his descendants contributed greatly to the development of the tabla language, compositional structures of the peshkars and kayadas.[7] Many compositions from this school are standard and introductory repertoire taught to students of all tabla gharanas.