Tihai

Hindi

A phrase repeated three times to land on the first beat.

RhythmKathak

Meaning

A tihai is a rhythmic phrase stated three times in succession, calculated so the final syllable falls exactly on the sam. It is the standard way a Kathak passage resolves, and the moment of arrival is what draws the audience's response.

Related words

KorvaiA rhythmic composition, usually stated three times.SamThe first beat of the rhythmic cycle.TatkarKathak footwork — the rhythmic language of the feet.JathiA passage of pure rhythmic dance.TalaThe rhythmic cycle a piece is set in.NattuvangamConducting the recital with cymbals and spoken syllables.

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