Raga Lakshana: Mohanam MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal) Theory Unit III quiz covers the Raga Lakshana of Mohanam. Topics include its Arohana and Avarohana, key prayogas, swaras used, and raga identity points. Please answer the questions below, click Submit to see your score, and download the answer PDF for your records.
Overview of Raga Mohanam
Mohanam is one of the most popular and pleasing ragas in Carnatic music. It is a symmetrical pentatonic scale (Audava Raga) that evokes a sense of auspiciousness and joy. Because it uses only five notes in both ascent and descent, it is very distinct and easily identifiable.
1. Arohana and Avarohana
The scale of Mohanam consists of the Shadja, Chatusruti Rishabha, Antara Gandhara, Panchama, and Chatusruti Dhaivata.
- Arohana: S R2 G3 P D2 S
- Avarohana: S D2 P G3 R2 S
2. Raga Structure and Swaras
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Audava-Audava (5 notes up, 5 notes down) |
| Parent (Janaka) | 28th Melakarta Harikambhoji |
| Varjya Swaras | Madhyama (M) and Nishada (N) |
| Hindustani Equivalent | Raga Bhoopali |
3. Key Identity Points
- Jeeva Swaras: Gandhara (G) and Dhaivata (D) are very important life notes.
- Nyasa Swaras: Phrases often end on G, P, or D.
- Graha Bhedam: Mohanam is a classic example for Graha Bhedam (modal shift). Shifting the tonic note to its Rishabha yields Madhyamavati, to Gandhara yields Hindolam, etc.
- Feeling: It is known for Bhakti (devotion) and Shringara (romance/beauty) rasas.
4. Quick Revision Summary
- Mohanam omits Ma and Ni completely.
- It is an Upanga raga derived from Harikambhoji.
- It is a symmetric raga (same notes in ascent and descent).
- It is widely used in varnams, kritis, and film music due to its universal appeal.
5. Extra Practice Questions
- Q: Which Melakarta number is Harikambhoji?
A: 28. - Q: If you add Nishada to Mohanam, which Raga might it resemble?
A: Depending on the N, it could shift towards Harikambhoji or other scales. - Q: What is the specific variety of Rishabha used?
A: Chatusruti Rishabha (R2). - Q: Is Mohanam a Vakra raga?
A: No, it has a straight ascent and descent. - Q: Name a popular Varnam in Mohanam.
A: Ninnu Kori.
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