Simple Geetams: Pillari Gitams (2) MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz for Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal) (Code 031), Practical Unit II, focuses on the Topic of Simple Geetams, specifically covering two Pillari Geetams. Test your knowledge on these performance-ready practice compositions, their structure, ragas, and talas. Submit your answers to check your score and download the PDF solution.
About Pillari Geetams
In the curriculum for Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal), Practical Unit II, students learn Simple Geetams. The term “Geetam” refers to the simplest musical form which combines melody (Dhatu) and lyrics (Matu). “Pillari Geetams” are specifically the preliminary geetams composed in praise of Lord Ganesha (Vighneshwara), often referred to as “Pillaiyar” in Tamil tradition, hence the name Pillari.
Key Characteristics
- Composer: The systematic introduction of Pillari Geetams is credited to Purandara Dasa, the Pitamaha of Carnatic Music.
- Raga: The most common raga for the initial Pillari Geetams is Malahari, a janya of Mayamalavagowla. It is an Audava-Shadava raga.
- Tala: The first geetam “Sri Gananatha” is set to Rupaka Tala (Chaturashra Jati Rupaka). Other geetams may be in Triputa or other talas.
- Structure: Geetams flow continuously without divisions like Pallavi, Anupallavi, or Charanam. The tempo is usually medium (Madhyama Kala).
Common Pillari Geetams
The two most famous Pillari Geetams covered in the practical syllabus are:
| Opening Line (Sahitya) | Raga | Tala | Deity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Gananatha (Lambodara) | Malahari | Rupaka | Ganesha |
| Kereya Neeranu | Malahari | Triputa | Ganesha / Philosophical |
Practice Tips
When practicing these geetams for performance:
- Ensure the sruti is aligned perfectly, especially for the cleaner notes of Malahari (Sudha Rishabha, Antara Gandhara, Sudha Madhyama, Sudha Dhaivata).
- Maintain a steady Kalapramana (tempo). Do not speed up as you progress.
- Pronounce the Sahitya clearly. Since Geetams are the first instance of lyrics, sahitya suddhi is crucial.
Extra Practice Questions
- 1. Which swara is varjya (omitted) in the Arohana of Raga Malahari? (Answer: Gandhara and Nishada)
- 2. What is the parent raga (Melakarta) of Malahari? (Answer: Mayamalavagowla)
- 3. Define the term “Dhatu” in the context of a Geetam. (Answer: The musical or melodic part/swaras)
- 4. Who is considered the Pitamaha of Carnatic Music? (Answer: Purandara Dasa)
- 5. Is there a Sangati (variation) in Geetams? (Answer: No, Geetams are sung without intricate Sangatis)
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