Alankaras Set to Ragas and Talas MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz addresses the Practical Unit for Class IX Hindustani Music Melodic Instruments (Code 035). It focuses on Alankaras exercises set to prescribed Ragas and Talas, covering melodic patterns (Aroha/Avroha) and rhythmic applications. Click “Submit Quiz” to verify your answers and download the PDF solution.
Overview of Alankaras in Hindustani Music
Alankar literally means “ornament” or “decoration.” In the context of Hindustani Music (Melodic Instruments), Alankaras are specific patterns of musical notes (Swaras) arranged in ascending (Aroha) and descending (Avroha) orders. They form the foundational grammar for learning any instrument, such as Sitar, Sarod, or Flute.
Practicing Alankaras helps students gain command over the instrument, improve finger agility, and internalize the specific intervals of a Raga.
Key Concepts
- Aroha & Avroha: Every Alankar has an upward movement (Sa Re Ga Ma…) and a downward movement (Sa Ni Dha Pa…).
- Raga Context: While basic Alankaras are learned in Shuddha Swaras (Bilawal Thaat), they must eventually be practiced in the prescribed Ragas (e.g., Yaman, Bhupali, Kafi) using the specific notes of that Raga.
- Tala-Baddha: Alankaras set to a specific rhythm cycle (Tala) like Teentala or Dadra help in developing a strong sense of Laya (tempo).
- Varna: Alankaras are combinations of different Varnas (Arohi, Avrohi, Sanchari, etc.).
Common Alankar Patterns
| Pattern Type | Example (Aroha) | Example (Avroha) |
|---|---|---|
| Simple (Saral) | Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni Sa | Sa Ni Dha Pa Ma Ga Re Sa |
| Double Notes | SaSa ReRe GaGa MaMa | SaSa NiNi DhaDha PaPa |
| Three Note Combo | SaReGa, ReGaMa, GaMaPa | SaNiDha, NiDhaPa, DhaPaMa |
| Skip Pattern | SaGa, ReMa, GaPa | SaDha, NiPa, DhaMa |
Extra Practice Questions
- What is the significance of practicing Alankaras in different speeds (Layakaris)?
- Write the Aroha and Avroha of Alankar “Sa Re Ga, Re Ga Ma” in Raga Bhupali.
- How does Alankar practice differ between a plucked instrument (Sitar) and a bowed instrument (Esraj)?
- Explain the term “Paltas” in the context of instrumental music.
- Why is it important to maintain a steady tempo while playing Alankaras?
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