Tala Notation: Keharwa MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class IX Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034), Unit 4. This quiz covers the structure and notation of Keharwa Tala, including Theka, Matras, Vibhags, and specific notation signs. Attempt the questions below, submit to view your score, and download the solutions PDF.
Overview of Keharwa Tala
Keharwa is one of the most popular and widely used Talas in Hindustani music, especially in light classical forms like Thumri, Dadra, Bhajans, Ghazals, and Folk music. It is an 8-beat cycle (Matras) divided into two equal parts (Vibhags).
Key Structural Details
- Total Matras: 8
- Vibhags: 2 (4 matras in each)
- Division: 4 – 4
- Sam (First Beat): Represented by ‘X’, falls on the 1st Matra.
- Khali (Empty Beat): Represented by ‘0’, falls on the 5th Matra.
Standard Theka Notation
| Matra | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol | Dha | Ge | Na | Ti | Na | Ka | Dhi | Na |
| Sign | X | 0 |
Quick Revision Notes
- The first beat (Sam) is the point of emphasis where the singer and percussionist meet.
- The Khali section starts at the 5th beat, indicated by a wave of the hand or the sign ‘0’.
- Keharwa has a Chatusra Jati (based on multiples of 4).
- It is simple, lively, and supports various tempos (Laya).
Extra Practice Questions
- Which sign is used to denote the first beat in Bhatkhande notation? (Answer: X)
- What is the duration of one cycle of Keharwa? (Answer: 8 beats)
- Is Keharwa typically used for serious Dhrupad singing? (Answer: No, mostly light music)
- Does the 5th beat have a clap or a wave? (Answer: Wave/Khali)
- How many claps (Tali) are shown in the standard notation of Keharwa? (Answer: One, on the 1st beat)
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