Simple Svarajatis: Khamas Raga MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class: IX | Subject: Carnatic Music (Vocal) (Code 031) | Unit: Practical Unit III | Topic: Simple Svarajatis: Khamas Raga | Covering: Learn and render; swara-sahitya coordination. Test your knowledge below, submit to see your score, and download the answer PDF for revision.
Topic Overview: Svarajati & Khamas Raga
In Class 9 Carnatic Music (Vocal), the study of “Simple Svarajatis” is a vital step in bridging the gap between basic learning exercises like Geethams and more complex forms like Varnams. The focus of Practical Unit III is specifically on Svarajatis in Khamas Raga.
A Svarajati is a musical form consisting of Swara (solfa syllables) and Sahitya (lyrics). Unlike the earlier Geethams, Svarajatis have a more defined structure with Pallavi, Anupallavi (sometimes), and multiple Charanas. The key learning outcome is mastering the coordination between the melody (swara) and the lyrics (sahitya).
Key Concepts of Khamas Raga
- Parent Scale (Melakarta): Khamas is a Janya (derivative) of the 28th Melakarta, Harikambhoji.
- Arohana (Ascent): S M G M P D N S (Vakra / Crooked structure).
- Avarohana (Descent): S N D P M G R S.
- Swaras Used: Shadjam, Chatusruti Rishabha, Antara Gandhara, Suddha Madhyama, Panchama, Chatusruti Dhaivata, and Kaisiki Nishada.
- Mood: Generally evokes Sringara (love) or Bhakti (devotion); it is a ‘Ranjaka’ (pleasing) raga.
Structure of the Svarajati
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Pallavi | The opening thematic line of the composition. |
| Charanas | Multiple stanzas where each line of Swara is followed by a corresponding line of Sahitya. |
| Tala | Most simple Svarajatis, like the famous “Samba Siva”, are set to Adi Tala (8 beats). |
Revision Points
- Svarajatis are taught after Geethams to introduce the concept of intricate Swara-Sahitya alignment.
- The most popular simple Svarajati is “Samba Siva” in Khamas Raga, composed by Chinni Krishna Dasa.
- While singing, students must ensure the Sahitya syllables align perfectly with the Swara notation.
- Khamas is an Audava-Sampurna raga in some traditions but is generally treated as Vakra-Sampurna in practice (due to SMGM phrase).
Extra Practice Questions
- Which Melakarta is Harikambhoji numbered as in the 72 Melakarta scheme? (Answer: 28)
- What is the name of the Dhaivata used in Khamas Raga? (Answer: Chatusruti Dhaivata)
- Name the composer of the famous Svarajati “Samba Siva”. (Answer: Chinni Krishna Dasa)
- Is the Nishada in Khamas Raga Kakali or Kaisiki? (Answer: Kaisiki Nishada)
- How many beats does Adi Tala have? (Answer: 8 beats)
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