tukda

A tukda is a fixed composition primarily with forceful bols and heavy consonants. A tukda contains a tihai within it and usually is 2-3 awartans in length. Some stalwarts argue that a tukda, or "piece," is a portion of a longer composition which, even if played independently, appears meaningful. 

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The structure of a tukda is a small portion followed by a tihai. Sometimes, this small portion or opening played before the tihai is also called "mukhda," which means "face". A tukda, which in literal terms means "piece," isn't as long as compositions such as parans. It is believed that they were formed first in Lucknow gharana, followed by Farrukhabad and Benares. Most stalwarts agree that it evolved from pakhawaaj style parans and was influenced by kathak. 

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Tukdas are short and are not symmetrical like kaydas or relas. Khula baaj bols are utilized for a profound effect. Some tukdas don't contain a tihai. On the other hand, some tukdas contain a phrase repeated 3 times without a pause, or without a "dha". Phrases such as "dhagetite," "DRDRKTTK," "dhaSTRKTTK," "KTTK," "kdadha," "taraSna," "GDGN," and "nagetite" can be included in tukdas. Tabla players will often perform padhant (recitation) before playing a tukda.