Kayada/Rela (Sultala) + 2 Paltas + Tihai MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is for Class IX students studying Hindustani Music Percussion Instruments (Code 036) as part of the Practical unit. It covers the topic of Kayada/Rela (Sultala) + 2 Paltas + Tihai, focusing on one kayada or rela in sultala, two paltas, and one tihai. Answer all questions, submit your quiz, and download the PDF answer sheet for your records.
Understanding Kayada, Rela, Palta, and Tihai in Sultala
In Hindustani classical music, especially for percussion instruments like the Tabla, compositions are built upon a foundation of specific structures and rules. The topics covered in this quiz—Kayada, Rela, Palta, and Tihai, all set to Sultala—are fundamental practical skills for any Class 9 student. Mastering them builds a strong base for more complex performances.
Key Concepts Explained
1. Sultala: The Rhythmic Cycle
Sultala is a rhythmic cycle (Taal) of 10 beats (matras). Its structure is unique and less common than Taals like Teentala, making it an interesting study. Understanding its framework is essential before playing any composition in it.
| Matra (Beat) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol (Syllable) | Dha | Dha | Ti | Ra | Ki | Ta | Tu | Na | Ka | Ta |
| Vibhag (Division) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |||||
| Taali/Khali | X (Sam) | 0 (Khali) | 2 (Taali) | 3 (Taali) | 0 (Khali) | |||||
- Matras: 10 beats.
- Vibhags: 5 divisions of 2 matras each.
- Taali (Clap): On the 1st, 5th, and 7th matras. The 1st beat is called ‘Sam’.
- Khali (Wave): On the 3rd and 9th matras.
2. Kayada: The Foundation Composition
A ‘Kayada’ (from the Hindi word ‘qaida’, meaning rule) is a structured, expandable composition. It has a main theme (mukhda) which is then developed through variations. The key rule of a Kayada is that any bols (syllables) used in its variations (Paltas) must be derived from the bols present in the original theme. It is a tool for developing rhythmic discipline and creativity.
3. Rela: The Fast-Paced Flow
A ‘Rela’ is compositionally similar to a Kayada but is characterized by its very high speed (drut laya). The focus of a Rela is on creating a continuous, flowing chain of rapid strokes, testing the player’s clarity, speed, and endurance.
4. Palta: The Variation
A ‘Palta’ (meaning ‘to turn’ or ‘variation’) is an expansion of the Kayada. After presenting the main theme of the Kayada, the performer plays several Paltas. Each Palta takes the bols of the Kayada and rearranges them in new and interesting patterns, showcasing rhythmic imagination while adhering to the Kayada’s rules.
5. Tihai: The Rhythmic Cadence
A ‘Tihai’ is a cadential pattern used to conclude a rhythmic section or an entire performance. It consists of a phrase (bol) repeated three times, with the final beat of the third repetition landing precisely on the ‘Sam’ (the first beat of the next cycle). A Tihai creates a sense of rhythmic resolution and excitement.
Quick Revision Points
- Sultala: 10 matras, 5 vibhags (2-2-2-2-2), Tali on 1, 5, 7, Khali on 3, 9.
- Kayada: A rule-based composition that serves as a theme for variations.
- Palta: A variation or expansion of a Kayada, using only the bols from the original theme.
- Rela: A very fast composition focused on creating a continuous flow of notes.
- Tihai: A phrase repeated three times to conclude a piece, always ending on ‘Sam’.
Extra Practice Questions
- Write down the theka of Sultala with its Tali and Khali markings.
- What is the main difference between a Kayada and a Rela?
- If a Kayada theme is ‘DhaTi DhaGe NaDha TiNa’, can a palta use the bol ‘Ka’? Why or why not?
- Explain the role of ‘Sam’ in a Tihai.
- Compose a simple Tihai using the bol ‘Dha’ that lands on the Sam of a 10-beat cycle.
Content created and reviewed by the CBSE Quiz Editorial Team based on the latest NCERT textbooks and CBSE syllabus. Our goal is to help students practice concepts clearly, confidently, and exam-ready through well-structured MCQs and revision content.