In Carnatic music, the term “Layam” is used instead of “Laya” in Hindustani music. Both terms refer to the tempo and rhythmic flow of a musical composition, essential for maintaining structure in performance.
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
“Laya” in Hindustani music and “Layam” in Carnatic music both denote the tempo or rhythmic movement of a composition. It governs the speed at which a raga or tala is played. Classical music uses three main layas: Vilambit (slow), Madhya (medium) and Drut (fast). Layam helps musicians synchronize melodies with rhythms, ensuring smooth transitions between different sections of a composition. It is crucial in both improvised and structured classical performances.