Raga Lakshana: Sankarabharanam MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This Class IX Carnatic Music (Melodic Instrument) Code 032 quiz covers Theory Unit 2 topics, specifically the Raga Lakshana of Sankarabharanam, focusing on its Arohana, Avarohana, and identity points. Test your knowledge, submit to view your score, and download the PDF answer key for revision.

Overview of Raga Sankarabharanam

Sankarabharanam is one of the most popular and grand ragas in Carnatic music. It is the 29th Melakarta raga and is known as a Shankarabharanam in the South Indian system. This raga corresponds to the C Major scale in Western music and Raga Bilawal in Hindustani music. It is a Sampurna raga, meaning it has all seven notes (swaras) in both its ascent and descent.

Arohana and Avarohana

Being a Melakarta raga, its structure is linear and complete. The swaras follow a regular order without any deviations (Vakra) or omissions (Varja).

  • Arohana (Ascent): S R2 G3 M1 P D2 N3 S
  • Avarohana (Descent): S N3 D2 P M1 G3 R2 S

Swara Sthanas (Note Positions)

Swara Technical Name Symbol
Shadjam Shadjam S
Rishabham Chatusruti Rishabham R2
Gandharam Antara Gandharam G3
Madhyamam Suddha Madhyamam M1
Panchamam Panchamam P
Dhaivatam Chatusruti Dhaivatam D2
Nishadam Kakali Nishadam N3

Key Characteristics

  • It is a Janaka (parent) raga.
  • It evokes a mood of grandeur, devotion, and tranquillity.
  • It is suitable for singing at all times, but traditionally considered an evening raga.
  • Many popular Janya ragas like Hamsadhwani and Arabhi are derived from it.

Extra Practice Questions

  • 1. What is the Chakra number of Sankarabharanam? (Answer: 5th Chakra, Bana)
  • 2. Which Western scale is identical to Sankarabharanam? (Answer: Major Scale)
  • 3. Is Sankarabharanam a Vakra raga? (Answer: No, it is linear)
  • 4. Name the Prati Madhyamam counterpart of Sankarabharanam. (Answer: Kalyani / Mechakalyani, 65th Melakarta)
  • 5. Which swara is the Jiva swara (life note) of this raga? (Answer: Gandharam and Nishadam are very prominent)