---
title: "Thumri: Hindustani Semi-Classical Vocal Genre"
description: "Thumri is a semi-classical Hindustani vocal genre that emphasizes emotive poetry, making it essential for understanding Indian cultural heritage in UPSC exams."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/thumri"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Thumri is a semi-classical vocal genre of Hindustani music built on romantic and devotional poetry, prized for emotive expression over rigid raga purity.
- How does thumri differ from khayal?
- What is bol-banao in thumri?
- What are the main stylistic schools of thumri?
- Why is thumri associated with the courtesan tradition?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2016 the Government of India conferred the Padma Vibhushan on Banaras gharana vocalist Girija Devi, the foremost twentieth-century exponent of the Purab-ang thumri tradition, shortly before her death in 2017.

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