Purandara Dasa MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers Class IX Carnatic Music (Percussion) (Code 033), Theory Unit 2. It focuses on the life, contributions, and role of Purandara Dasa in Carnatic pedagogy. Test your knowledge on his title as Pitamaha, the introduction of Sarali Varisais, and his compositions. Submit your answers to view the score and download the PDF solution.
About Purandara Dasa and His Contributions
Purandara Dasa (1484–1564) is universally revered as the Sangeeta Pitamaha (Grandfather of Carnatic Music). He was a Haridasa, a great devotee of Lord Vishnu (Panduranga Vittal), and a social reformer who simplified the learning process of Carnatic music to make it accessible to everyone.
Key Pedagogical Contributions
His most significant contribution lies in structuring the teaching method (Abhyasa Gana) which is followed to this day:
- Raga Selection: He chose the Raga Mayamalavagowla for beginners because of its symmetrical structure (perfect balance in lower and upper tetrachords).
- Graded Exercises: He formulated the basic lessons:
- Sarali Varisais: Simple ascending and descending notes.
- Janta Varisais: Twin notes or stress exercises.
- Alankaras: Exercises based on the seven Suladi Talas.
- Pillari Geethams: He composed simple songs called Geethams (e.g., “Sri Gananatha”) to introduce students to lyrics combined with melody.
Life and Compositions
Born as Sreenivasa Nayaka, he was initially a wealthy merchant. After a spiritual awakening, he renounced his wealth and became a Haridasa. He composed thousands of songs known as Devaranamas or Dasavara padams, primarily in Kannada and some in Sanskrit. His signature (Ankita Nama) was “Purandara Vittala”.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Sangeeta Pitamaha |
| Original Name | Sreenivasa Nayaka |
| Mudra (Signature) | Purandara Vittala |
| Beginner Raga | Mayamalavagowla |
| Main Language | Kannada |
Extra Practice Questions
- Q: Which Tala system did Purandara Dasa utilize for Alankaras?
A: The Suladi Sapta Talas. - Q: What is the meaning of the term “Purandara Dasa”?
A: Servant of Lord Purandara (Vishnu). - Q: Identify the first Geetham usually taught to students.
A: Sri Gananatha (Lambodara). - Q: How many compositions is he believed to have composed?
A: Approximately 475,000 (though only a fraction survive). - Q: Which movement did he belong to?
A: The Bhakti Movement (Haridasa Kuta).
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