Term: Shruti MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers Unit 1 of Class IX Hindustani Music Melodic Instruments (Code 035), focusing on the topic of Shruti. Questions explore the definition of Shruti, its etymology, and the concept of microtonal pitch in Indian classical music. Complete the quiz to test your understanding, view detailed results, and download the solution PDF.
Understanding Shruti in Hindustani Music
Shruti is one of the most fundamental concepts in Indian Classical Music. It forms the basis of the entire melodic structure, including Swaras (notes) and Ragas.
1. Definition and Etymology
The term ‘Shruti’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Shru’, which means “to hear”. Therefore, Shruti is defined as “that which can be heard” or “audible sound”. In a musical context, it refers to the smallest interval of pitch that the human ear can distinguish and which can be used in music.
2. Microtonal Pitch
While Western music typically divides an octave into 12 semitones, Indian classical music recognizes 22 microtones or Shrutis within a Saptak (octave). These are subtle pitch variations that exist between the standard notes.
3. Distribution of Shrutis among Swaras
The 7 primary Swaras (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni) are placed at specific intervals on these 22 Shrutis. The ancient text Natyashastra by Bharata Muni defines the distribution as follows:
| Swara | Full Name | Number of Shrutis |
|---|---|---|
| Sa | Shadja | 4 (Chatuh-shruti) |
| Re | Rishabh | 3 (Tri-shruti) |
| Ga | Gandhar | 2 (Dvi-shruti) |
| Ma | Madhyam | 4 (Chatuh-shruti) |
| Pa | Pancham | 4 (Chatuh-shruti) |
| Dha | Dhaivat | 3 (Tri-shruti) |
| Ni | Nishad | 2 (Dvi-shruti) |
This distribution follows the formula: 4 – 3 – 2 – 4 – 4 – 3 – 2.
Quick Revision Key Points
- Root Word: Shru (to hear).
- Total Shrutis: 22 in one Octave.
- Relation to Swara: Swaras are specific illuminated positions among the Shrutis.
- Experiment: The Chatuh-Sarana experiment described in Natyashastra demonstrated the existence of 22 Shrutis using two Veenas.
Extra Practice Questions
- Which two notes have 4 Shrutis each apart from Sa? (Answer: Ma and Pa)
- What is the interval ratio of a Pramana Shruti? (Answer: 81/80)
- Which ancient treatise first detailed the 22 Shrutis? (Answer: Natyashastra)
- What type of interval is a ‘Dvi-shruti’? (Answer: A minor tone/semitone interval of 2 units)
- Is Shruti a fixed frequency? (Answer: No, it is a relative pitch interval)
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