[Premium] Khayal singing & the different gharanas of Hindustani music

The best primer I've come across for what is Khayal singing, why it's unique, Amir Khusrow's Sufi influence, Miya Tansen, Sadarang, and the different gharanas - all explained by a giant in the field.

The gift of YouTube keeps giving; this time, it’s one of the best-put-together documentaries on Khayal.

Originally, Khayal (ख़याल / خیال) from Persian means imagination, and at the heart of it is a culmination of two unique musical philosophies from two worlds meeting in the sub-continent. It would create a music style that would live in people’s imaginations for over 700 years.

Then there are the Gharanas, Kirana, Mewati, Jaipur, Agra, etc., and how each shaped this music in their way. I was surprised to read that the Gharana I associate my musical style with originally played instrumental music, which affected how singers interpreted it. As a guitarist & singer, I understand how approaching the same Raag / Scale on different instruments can create a new mood or identity, which just singers sometimes don’t hear.

This is told by none other than Triple Padma winner Ustad Zakir Hussain.