Sangeetpedia: Uthan

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Term: Uthan

The term uthan literally means the "act of rising" and refers to the first composition that is played in a solo performance. Uthan is usually a majestic opening flourish which rises to a crescendo and introduces the tabla's presence before settling down to the theka. At times, the term mohra (literally "front" or "vanguard") is also used for this introductory segment in some gharanas. An important distinction between the two terms is that the uthan is derived from the kathak dance tradition, and therefore, the bols resound with an emphatic boldness that is not as prominent in mohra. Uthan is traditionally performed this way in the Benaras and Lucknow gharanas where elements of classical dance tradition have come to influence tabla repertoire.....

The initial phrases of uthan are improvised in slow tempo and begin without the resonance of the bayan using dampened strokes. Some believe that this is analogous to the alap of vocal and instrumental music. As the performance proceeds, undampened strokes are added on the bayan, creating more resonance and a sense of rhythmic momentum leading to a climax. The climax arrives with a tihai, a thrice-repeated cadential phrase that concludes on sam.....