Pillari Geetams (2) MCQs Quiz | Class 9

Class IX Carnatic Music (Melodic Instrument) (Code 032) Unit Practical Topic 2 quiz. This quiz covers the topic ‘Pillari Geetams (2) MCQs Quiz | Class 9’ focusing on learning and rendering 2 pillari geetams. Practice these questions to test your knowledge, check your score, and download the solution PDF for revision.

Overview of Pillari Geetams

In Carnatic music, Geetams are the simplest type of melodic composition. They are taught to beginners immediately after the basic exercises (Sarali Varisai, Janta Varisai, and Alankaras). The term “Pillari” refers to Lord Ganesha (Pillayar), and thus Pillari Geetams are auspicious introductory songs primarily praising Lord Ganesha.

Key Concepts

  • Composer: Most Pillari Geetams were composed by Purandara Dasa, who is revered as the “Karnataka Sangeeta Pitamaha” (Grandfather of Carnatic Music).
  • Raga: The initial Pillari Geetams are set in Raga Malahari. Malahari is a Janya (derivative) of the 15th Melakarta, Mayamalavagowla.
  • Structure: A Geetam is a continuous composition. It does not have distinct divisions like Pallavi, Anupallavi, and Charanam. The music flows seamlessly from beginning to end.
  • Tempo: They are usually rendered in Madhyama Kala (medium speed).

The Two Main Pillari Geetams

Students of Class IX Carnatic Music (Melodic Instrument) are expected to learn and render the following two Geetams:

Song Start (Lyrics) Deity Raga Tala
Lambodara Lakumikara Lord Ganesha Malahari Rupaka
Kereya Neeranu Lord Ganesha / Nature Malahari Triputa

Understanding Malahari Raga

Since these Geetams are in Malahari, it is crucial to know the scale:

  • Arohana (Ascent): S R1 M1 P D1 S
  • Avarohana (Descent): S D1 P M1 G3 R1 S
  • Omitted Swaras (Varjya): In the Arohana, Gandhara (G) and Nishada (N) are absent.

Quick Revision List

  • Geetams unite melody (Dhatu) and lyrics (Matu) in a simple format.
  • Usually, there is one swara for each syllable of the lyric.
  • Purandara Dasa systematized the early music lessons including Geetams.
  • ‘Lambodara’ is set to Rupaka Tala (Cycle of 6 units in modern practice, often denoted as 2+4 or simple 3 beats).
  • ‘Kereya Neeranu’ is set to Triputa Tala (Cycle of 7 units).

Extra Practice Questions

  1. What is the Melakarta number of Mayamalavagowla? (Answer: 15)
  2. Which swara is present in the Avarohana of Malahari but not the Arohana? (Answer: Gandhara / Antara Gandhara)
  3. Does a Geetam have Sangatis (variations)? (Answer: No, it is a simple form)
  4. Who is the presiding deity of the Geetam ‘Kundu Goura’? (Answer: Lord Ganesha)
  5. What constitutes the Sahitya of a Geetam? (Answer: Praise of God)