The Qawwal Bacchon Ka Gharana or Delhi Gharana is the oldest khayal gharana of the Hindustani Classical music tradition.[1] It was founded by Amir Khusrau and his students.
The members of this gharana have lived in Delhi for many generations. The gharana was founded by Amir Khusrau, pioneer of qawwali, tarana, and khayal.[2] As a result, this gharana specializes in these genres.
Members of this gharana approach raagdari with more freedom than the dhrupad-informed gharanas, like Gwalior, Jaipur, and Agra.[3] Emphasis on bhav and exposition are the hallmarks of this style.[4]
In addition to extensive khayal compositions, the gharana is known for its qawwals.[5]
Some orthodox members of the Indian subcontinental or South Asian music world do not regard the Delhi gharana as an "authentic" one because its members include a number of tabla and sarangi players. Some believe these members do not represent a truly unique musical style. Scholars note the individual quality of each generation's leading singer. Though, this tradition is a gharana in familial terms.
It is strictly forbidden to play Sarangi in the tradition of the original Qawwal Bacche.