Which vocal form, whose name means 'imagination' in Persian, is the most prominent genre in Hindustani classical vocal music, allowing extensive improvisation within a chosen raga?

• A Dhrupad
• B Thumri
• C Khayal ✓
• D Tarana

Khayal emerged in the 18th century and became the dominant classical vocal genre, characterised by slow (vilambit) and fast (drut) compositions and virtuosic improvisation.