Alankaras MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class: IX | Subject: Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034) | Unit: Practical | Topic: Alankaras MCQs Quiz | Class 9. Covering topics: Alankaras set to prescribed ragas and talas. Test your knowledge, submit your answers, and download the PDF solution for revision.
Overview of Alankaras in Hindustani Music
Alankara (also spelled Alankar) literally means “ornament” or “decoration.” In the context of Hindustani Classical Music, Alankaras are specific patterns of musical notes (Swaras) that are arranged in a particular order. Just as ornaments beautify the body, Alankaras beautify the music. They are essential for vocal culture and instrumental practice.
Key Characteristics
- Structure: Every Alankara has two parts: the ascending order (Aroh) and the descending order (Avaroh).
- Logic: The pattern established in the Aroh must be strictly mirrored in the Avaroh in reverse order.
- Purpose: They help in gaining control over Swaras, improving breath control, and understanding rhythm (Tala).
Common Alankara Patterns
Below is a table showing simple patterns used for practice in Class 9.
| Pattern Type | Aroh (Ascending) | Avaroh (Descending) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Note | Sa, Re, Ga, Ma… | Sa, Ni, Dha, Pa… |
| Double Note | SaSa, ReRe, GaGa… | SaSa, NiNi, DhaDha… |
| Sequential Pair | SaRe, ReGa, GaMa… | SaNi, NiDha, DhaPa… |
| Skip Pattern | SaGa, ReMa, GaPa… | SaDha, NiPa, DhaMa… |
Importance in Syllabus (Practical)
For Class 9 Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034), students are expected to practice Alankaras in prescribed Ragas (like Yaman, Bhupali, or Alhaiya Bilawal) and set them to Talas (like Teentala or Ektala). This builds the foundation for more complex improvisations like Taan and Vistaar later on.
Quick Revision Points
- Alankara = Ornament.
- It is a specific succession of notes.
- Varna is the act of singing/playing; Alankaras utilize all four Varnas (Sthayi, Arohi, Avarohi, Sanchari).
- Regular practice leads to a polished voice and better understanding of Swara intervals.
Extra Practice Questions
- What is the sequence ‘Sa Re Ga, Re Ga Ma, Ga Ma Pa’ called?
- Which Varna represents the ascending order of notes?
- Name one Tala commonly used for practicing basic Alankaras.
- If the Aroh is ‘Sa Ga, Re Ma’, what will be the first phrase of the Avaroh?
- Why is it important to practice Alankaras in different speeds (Layas)?
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