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What is an off-beat?
 "Off-beats"
are beats that begin or end at unexpected times different from
what the karatals (hand cymbals) are doing.
Normally, a standard mrdanga beat ends on the third
stroke of the karatals. Off-beats end before or after that,
and therefore they are a little "off" from the karatals.
The effect of an off-beat is that it ends when people are "up
in the air" while dancing, and it causes devotees to dance
more exuberantly. They are good for getting people to dance, and
what's better, they're not that hard to learn.
Remember that earlier we explained that there are three general
categories of mrdanga beats known as slow, medium and fast
(see illustration)?
 In
this course we will teach you a standard and an off-beat for each
speed and then throw in a few extra ones for laughs. By the time
you're done, you'll be able to lead a good kirtan no matter
what the speed, with a variety of standard, Bengali-style beats,
and everyone will compliment you how well you play.
In this Lesson 5 we will teach you your very first off-beat,
called The Basic Off-beat. This is a simple to learn, no
hassle beat that is very easy to play, and which is pleasant to
listen to.
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