Glossary · glossary · 1 min read
Tarana
तराना; a song of syllables
A tarana is a Hindustani composition sung to syllables such as “dir dir” and “tanana” rather than words. It is usually fast and often closes a vocal performance, letting the singer show speed and rhythm.
By John, Music lover from Bangalore · Reviewed by BRR · Last reviewed 29 Sept 2026
Tarana
A tarana is a composition sung to syllables rather than words. You might hear sounds such as “dir dir”, “tanana” or “yalali” instead of a line of lyrics.
With no lyrical text to carry, the singer can treat the voice as an instrument. A tarana is usually fast, with speed and rhythm at the centre of the performance.
These sounds differ from sargam, which means singing or writing melodies using note syllables such as Sa, Re and Ga. In a tarana, listen for syllables such as “tanana” rather than those note names.
Where you will hear it
A tarana, a Hindustani composition sung to syllables rather than words, usually closes a khayal singing performance. It is usually fast, giving the singer a chance to show speed and rhythm.
For example, many concerts in Bhoop or Kirwani end with a tarana in drut teentaal, a rhythmic cycle performed at a fast pace. In Carnatic music, the form that serves the same purpose is called tillana.
Keep going
- Sa Re Ga Ma: sargam explained for beginners · Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha and Ni are Indian music’s seven basic notes; sargam means singing or writing melodies with these syllables. To read and sing sargam, choose your home Sa, follow the note names and octave marks, and recognise the natural, lowered and raised forms.