Lakshan Geet Performance MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This quiz covers the Practical Unit of Class IX Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034), focusing specifically on Lakshan Geet Performance. It tests your understanding of the definition, purpose, features, and importance of singing one Lakshan Geet. Submit your answers to view the results and download the PDF solution.

Overview of Lakshan Geet

A Lakshan Geet is a unique type of musical composition in Hindustani Classical Music. As the name suggests (‘Lakshan’ means features or characteristics, and ‘Geet’ means song), it is a song whose lyrics describe the specific rules and characteristics of the Raag in which it is composed.

In Class 9 Practical (Code 034), students are required to learn and perform at least one Lakshan Geet. This aids in memorizing the technical details of a Raag while learning its melody.

Key Characteristics

  • Lyrics: The poetry is didactic (educational). It explicitly mentions the Vadi (king note), Samvadi (minister note), Jati (classification), Varjit Swaras (forbidden notes), and the time of singing the Raag.
  • Purpose: It serves as a mnemonic device to help students remember the grammatical rules of the Raag.
  • Creator: Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande is credited with composing a vast number of Lakshan Geets to modernize music education.
  • Tempo: It is usually set in Madhya Laya (medium tempo) and common Taals like Teen Taal or Ek Taal.

Difference: Lakshan Geet vs. Swarmalika

Feature Lakshan Geet Swarmalika
Content Lyrics describing Raag rules Musical Notes (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma) only
Primary Goal Theoretical knowledge through song Understanding melodic structure & rhythm
Language Hindi / Braj Bhasha Sargam (Solfege)

Quick Revision Points

  1. Lakshan Geets bridge the gap between theory and practice.
  2. They are considered ‘Nibaddha Gaan’ (bound composition).
  3. Performing a Lakshan Geet demonstrates both the melody of the Raag and the student’s theoretical understanding.
  4. They are rarely performed in professional concerts but are essential in institutional training.

Extra Practice Questions

  • Q: Who is the primary author of most traditional Lakshan Geets used today?
    Ans: Pt. V.N. Bhatkhande.
  • Q: Can a Lakshan Geet be sung in Drut Laya?
    Ans: Yes, but it is most commonly taught in Madhya Laya.
  • Q: Does a Lakshan Geet contain ‘Taan’?
    Ans: Usually no, the focus is on the lyrics and the composition itself.
  • Q: Which Taal is most popular for Lakshan Geets?
    Ans: Teen Taal (16 beats).
  • Q: What is the literal meaning of ‘Lakshan’?
    Ans: Characteristics or Signs.