Chhand refers to rhythmic patterns, while lay defines the speed of a composition. Chhand creates variations within a taal, while lay determines if the rhythm is slow (vilambit), medium (madhya) or fast (drut).
Class 6 Arts Kriti-I Chapter 8 Taal or Talam and Raga or Ragam in Indian Music NCERT solutions
Class 6 Visual Arts Kriti-I Taal or Talam and Raga or Ragam in Indian Music question answer
In Hindustani music, Chhand refers to rhythmic patterns that create musical variations in a taal, commonly used in tabla compositions. Lay, on the other hand, controls the tempo (speed) of the taal. The three types of lay are Vilambit (slow), Madhya (medium), and Drut (fast). For example, the same Teen Taal can be played slowly in Vilambit lay or rapidly in Drut lay. Chhand adds complexity, while lay maintains the tempo and feel of a composition.