In Hindustani music, alapana (alap) is a slow, meditative introduction, exploring raga notes without rhythm. In Carnatic music, alapana is shorter, faster and features briga (fast movements), leading into the composition.
Class 6 Visual Arts Kriti-I Taal or Talam and Raga or Ragam in Indian Music question answer
Class 6 NCERT Arts Chapter 8 Taal or Talam and Raga or Ragam in Indian Music solutions
In Hindustani music, alap is a slow, free-flowing exploration of a raga before the rhythmic composition. It is detailed, lasting several minutes, emphasizing gradual note development.
In Carnatic music, alapana is shorter and more structured, leading directly into a kriti (composition). It often includes briga (fast melodic runs) and is more rhythmically dynamic. While Hindustani alap is expansive and improvised, Carnatic alapana is focused, energetic, and ornamental.