Source: TH
| Information | |
| About | Khayal is a genre of Hindustani classical music, which originated in the late 16th century in Sufi communities in the region between Delhi and Jaunpur. |
| Origin | Persia (now Iran) |
| Meaning of ‘Khayal’ | The word “khayal” comes from Persian and means “imagination” or “idea“. It is also known as Bandish |
| Founder | Amir Khusrau |
| Style | Classical vocal music |
| Popular among | Artists, musicians |
| Improvisation | Yes |
| Repertoire | Short songs (2-8 lines) |
| Composed in | Specific raga and tala |
| Text | Praise of kings, description of seasons, pranks of Lord Krishna, divine love, the sorrow of separation |
| Major Gharanas | Gwalior (Oldest), Kirana, Patiala, Agra, Bhendibazaar |
| Dhrupad | The khayal is related to the longer melodic form known as the dhrupad but has fewer restrictions. |
