The clap of the hands is an important part of both the science and practice of North Indian music. It has a hoary past. An elaborate system of clapping and hand movements is mentioned in the Natya Shastra (circa 200 bc) where it is part of the system of timekeeping known as "kriya".

Besides the sam, the matras on which the time-beat falls is called tali (clapping). In the table on this page the first tali shown by a scross and the remaining talis are indicated by numerals.

The clap of the hands is very important for the conceptualization of Indian rhythms. North Indian musicians use the claps to designate the measures (vibhag) which are highly stressed. The most stressed measure is the beginning of the cycle. This is called the "sam", and is the most important beat in the whole cycle.

The clapping of hands is also of great practical importance. It is a convenient means for the singers and other musicians to communicate with the tabla player (tabalji) without having to break the performance.

The clapping must not be taken only into itself because it exits along with its compliment the wave. This wave or "khali" is also important in designating the measures

by David Courtney, Ph.D