Theka Recitation: Dadra (Dugun) MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class: IX | Subject: Hindustani Music Melodic Instruments (Code 035) | Unit: Practical | Topic: Theka Recitation: Dadra (Dugun) | Covering: Recite theka with dugun; keep tala with handbeats. Test your understanding of rhythm, beats, and recitation techniques. Submit your answers to see the score and download the PDF solution.
Overview of Dadra Tala
Dadra Tala is one of the most popular and common talas used in Hindustani classical and semi-classical music. It consists of 6 Matras (beats) and is widely used for light classical forms like Dadra, Thumri, Ghazals, and Folk songs. Understanding its structure and recitation in Dugun (double speed) is essential for practical music examinations.
Key Structure of Dadra Tala
The rhythmic cycle of Dadra is divided into two equal parts (vibhags). The distribution of beats is symmetrical.
- Total Matras: 6
- Vibhags (Divisions): 2
- Division Pattern: 3 + 3
- Sam (First Beat): On the 1st Matra (marked with ‘X’)
- Khali (Empty Beat): On the 4th Matra (marked with ‘0’)
Theka and Bol Notation
| Matra | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol | Dha | Dhin | Na | Dha | Tin | Na |
| Sign | X | 2 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 3 |
Understanding Dugun (Double Speed)
Dugun means reciting two syllables (bols) within the duration of a single beat (matra). To recite Dadra in Dugun, you must speak the entire cycle of 6 bols twice within the time of one cycle, or compress two bols into one matra duration.
Example of Dugun Grouping:
(Dha Dhin) (Na Dha) (Tin Na) – This covers the first 3 matras. Repeating it completes the cycle.
Handbeats (Tali and Khali)
When reciting the Theka, hand gestures are crucial:
- Beat 1 (Sam): Clap (Tali). This emphasizes the start of the cycle.
- Beat 4 (Khali): Wave (Open hand). This indicates the empty beat or secondary section.
Quick Revision List
- Dadra = 6 Beats.
- Structure = 3/3.
- Tali on 1, Khali on 4.
- Used in light music (Bhajans, Gazals).
- Dugun involves speaking two bols per beat.
Extra Practice Questions
- Recite the Theka of Dadra keeping handbeats in Ekgun (single speed).
- Demonstrate the difference between Tali and Khali positions in Dadra.
- Write the notation of Dadra Tala in Dugun laya.
- Which beat marks the beginning of the second Vibhag in Dadra?
- Why is Dadra considered a symmetrical tala?
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