Raga Lakshana: Sankarabharanam MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This quiz covers Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal) Unit III Theory, focusing on the Raga Lakshana of Sankarabharanam. It tests knowledge on Arohana/Avarohana, raga identity points, swara variants, and basic classification. Attempt all 10 questions, review your score, and download the solution PDF.

Understanding Raga Sankarabharanam

Dheerasankarabharanam, commonly known as Sankarabharanam, is one of the most popular and fundamental ragas in Carnatic music. It serves as a major reference for swara sthanas and is widely used in concerts and practice.

1. Melakarta Classification

Sankarabharanam is the 29th Melakarta raga. It belongs to the 5th Chakra, known as the Bana Chakra. Being a Melakarta raga, it is a Janaka Raga (parent raga) and has all seven notes in both ascent and descent.

2. Arohana and Avarohana

The structure is Sampurna-Sampurna, meaning it uses 7 notes in both directions in a linear order.

  • Arohana: S R2 G3 M1 P D2 N3 S
  • Avarohana: S N3 D2 P M1 G3 R2 S

3. Swara Sthanas

The specific note variations (swara sthanas) used in this raga are:

Swara Technical Name
Rishabham Chatusruti Rishabham (R2)
Gandharam Antara Gandharam (G3)
Madhyamam Suddha Madhyamam (M1)
Dhaivatam Chatusruti Dhaivatam (D2)
Nishadam Kakali Nishadam (N3)

4. Key Identity Points

This raga corresponds to the Major Scale in Western Music and the raga Bilawal in Hindustani Music. It is considered a Sarva Kalika Raga (can be sung at all times), though often associated with the evening. It is a “Gamaka-rich” raga known for its majestic and grand appeal.

Quick Revision Practice

  • Which Chakra? Bana (V).
  • Equivalent Hindustani Raga? Bilawal.
  • Is it a Janya Raga? No, it is a Melakarta (Janaka) raga.
  • Mela Number? 29.
  • Madhyamam Type? Suddha Madhyamam.