Muthuswamy Dikshitar MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This Class IX Carnatic Music (Melodic Instrument) Code 032 Theory Unit 1 quiz covers the life, contributions, compositional style, and themes of Muthuswamy Dikshitar. Test your knowledge on his mudra, group kritis, and unique musical style, then submit to check your score and download the PDF answer sheet.
About Muthuswamy Dikshitar
Muthuswamy Dikshitar (1775-1835) was the youngest of the Carnatic Music Trinity (Trimurti). Born in Tiruvarur, he was a prolific composer whose works are known for their contemplative nature, heavy reliance on Sanskrit, and intricate raga portrayals. His compositions are often described as resembling the structure of a coconut (Narikela Paka), meaning the essence is hard to reach initially but sweet once understood.
Key Contributions & Style
- Vainika Gayaka Style: His compositions reflect the nuances of the Veena, characterized by slow tempo (Chowka Kala) and rich gamakas.
- Language: He predominantly composed in Sanskrit, showcasing high literary proficiency.
- Mudra: He used the signature “Guruguha” in his compositions.
- Raga Mudra: Unlike many others, he wove the name of the Raga into the lyrics of the composition.
- Mela System: He followed the Asampurna Mela Paddhati (Venkatamakhi’s system) rather than the Sampurna Mela system used by Tyagaraja.
Famous Group Kritis
Dikshitar is famous for composing groups of kritis on specific themes or deities. Some of the most notable sets include:
| Group Name | Theme/Deity | Number of Kritis |
|---|---|---|
| Kamalamba Navavaranam | Goddess Kamalamba of Tiruvarur | 11 (9 + 2) |
| Navagraha Kritis | The Nine Planets | 9 |
| Panchalinga Kritis | Five Elements (Prithvi, Appu, etc.) | 5 |
| Nilotpalamba Kritis | Goddess Nilotpalamba | Mixed |
Unique Features
Nottuswara Sahityas: Dikshitar composed around 40 songs based on Western melodic scales (like the British anthem) set to Sanskrit lyrics. These are known as Nottuswaras.
Vibhakti Kritis: He composed songs in all the eight cases (Vibhaktis) of Sanskrit grammar, notably in the Guruguha Vibhakti and Kamalamba Navavarana kritis.
Quick Revision Points
- Birthplace: Tiruvarur.
- Guru: Chidambaranatha Yogi (who took him to Varanasi).
- Influence: Exposed to Dhrupad style of Hindustani music in Varanasi.
- First Composition: “Srinathadi Guruguho” in Raga Mayamalavagowla at Tiruttani.
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