Tala Notation: Ektala (with Dugun) MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This quiz covers Class IX Hindustani Music Melodic Instruments (Code 035), Unit 4. It focuses on the topic “Tala Notation: Ektala (with Dugun)” including concepts like Theka, matra, vibhag, and dugun notation/layakari. Test your knowledge of the 12-beat rhythmic cycle, submit your answers, and download the solution PDF for revision.

About Ektala and Notation

Ektala is a very popular Tala in Hindustani Classical Music, widely used in both Vilambit (slow) and Drut (fast) Khyal singing. It is a cycle of 12 Matras (beats).

Key Characteristics of Ektala

  • Matras: 12 beats in total.
  • Vibhags: 6 divisions.
  • Division Pattern: 2-2-2-2-2-2 (each vibhag has 2 matras).
  • Sam (X): The first beat (1st Matra).
  • Tali: There are 4 Talis on Matras 1, 5, 9, and 11.
  • Khali (0): There are 2 Khalis on Matras 3 and 7.

Theka Structure

Matra 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Bol Dhin Dhin Dage Tirakit Tu Na Kat Ta Dage Tirakit Dhi Na
Sign X 0 2 0 3 4

Understanding Dugun (Double Speed)

Dugun is the art of Layakari where two matras of the original composition are compressed into one beat duration. In notation, this is represented by grouping two bols together with a semi-circle underneath.

  • Calculation: Since Ektala has 12 matras, the Dugun will be completed in 12 / 2 = 6 beats.
  • Writing: To write the full Dugun within one cycle of Ektala, the sequence is usually repeated twice (6 + 6 = 12 matras).

Practice Questions

  • 1. Write the full Theka of Ektala with proper signs (X, 0, 2, 3, 4).
  • 2. Explain the significance of the 2-2-2-2-2-2 division pattern.
  • 3. Calculate where the Dugun of Ektala starts if the cycle begins from Sam.
  • 4. Compare the Khali positions of Ektala with Chautala.
  • 5. Notate the first vibhag of Ektala in Dugun laya.