Raga Lakshana: Hamsadhvani MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz targets Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal) Code 031 students covering Theory Unit III. The questions focus on the Raga Lakshana of Hamsadhvani, including its Arohana/Avarohana, key phrases, and raga identity points. Test your knowledge, submit your answers, and download a PDF summary for your records.
Overview of Raga Hamsadhvani
Hamsadhvani is one of the most popular and auspicious ragas in Carnatic music. It is traditionally invoked at the beginning of a concert to create a pleasant and bright atmosphere. The name Hamsadhvani literally translates to “The Sound of Swans”.
Raga Classification (Lakshana)
Hamsadhvani is a Janya raga derived from the 29th Melakarta, Dheera Shankarabharanam. It is an Audava-Audava raga, meaning it has five notes in the ascending scale (Arohana) and five notes in the descending scale (Avarohana).
- Parent Raga (Mela): 29th Shankarabharanam
- Arohana: S R2 G3 P N3 S
- Avarohana: S N3 P G3 R2 S
Swaras Involved
Since it is a derivative of Shankarabharanam, it takes the same swaras as the parent, omitting two notes.
| Swara Code | Swara Name |
|---|---|
| S | Shadja |
| R2 | Chatusruti Rishabha |
| G3 | Antara Gandhara |
| P | Panchama |
| N3 | Kakali Nishada |
Key Characteristics
- Varja Swaras: Madhyama (M) and Dhaivata (D) are completely absent. Hence it is a Varja raga.
- Graha Swaras: S, G, and P are common starting notes for phrases.
- Nyasa Swaras: G, P, and N are important resting notes.
- Rasa: It evokes Vira (valor), Adbhuta (wonder), and Sringara (love), generally imparting a feeling of auspiciousness and enthusiasm.
- History: It is widely believed to have been created by Ramaswami Dikshitar, the father of Muthuswami Dikshitar.
Common Compositions
Several famous compositions help students understand the essence of this raga:
- Vatapi Ganapatim – Muthuswami Dikshitar (Sanskrit)
- Raghunayaka – Tyagaraja (Telugu)
- Gajavadana Beduve – Purandaradasa (Kannada)
Practice Questions
- Which two notes are omitted in Hamsadhvani compared to Shankarabharanam?
- Is Hamsadhvani an Upanga or Bhashanga raga?
- Name one popular Kriti in this raga.
- What is the Melakarta number of its parent raga?
- Who is credited with the invention of Hamsadhvani?
