Term: Swar MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class: IX | Subject: Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034) | Unit: Unit 1 | Topic: Swar. This quiz covers the definition of musical notes (Swar), distinction from Shruti, and classification into Shuddha and Vikrit forms. Attempt the questions below to test your understanding, then submit to check your score and download the solutions PDF.
Understanding Swar (Musical Note)
In Indian Classical Music, a Swar is a musical sound that has a definite pitch, is steady, and is pleasing to the ear. It is distinct from noise or ordinary sound because of its resonance and continuity.
Key Concepts
- Definition: The word ‘Swar’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘Rajr’ meaning ‘to shine’. It is a sound that creates a charming effect on the listener’s mind.
- Relation to Shruti: While there are 22 Shrutis (microtones) in a Saptak, only 7 specific Shrutis are selected to form the basic musical scale. These 7 selected sounds are called Swaras.
- Total Swaras: There are essentially 7 Shuddha (Pure) Swaras. When variations are included, the total number of Swaras in a Saptak (octave) becomes 12 (7 Shuddha + 5 Vikrit).
Classification of Swaras
| Type | Count | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuddha | 7 | Pure notes in their natural position | Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni |
| Vikrit | 5 | Modified notes (flatted or sharpened) | Re (K), Ga (K), Ma (T), Dha (K), Ni (K) |
Note on Vikrit Swaras:
1. Komal (Flat): Re, Ga, Dha, and Ni can be lowered from their natural position.
2. Tivra (Sharp): Only Ma can be raised from its natural position.
3. Achal (Immovable): Sa and Pa are fixed; they never become Komal or Tivra.
Quick Revision List
- Sapta Swara: Shadja (Sa), Rishabh (Re), Gandhar (Ga), Madhyam (Ma), Pancham (Pa), Dhaivat (Dha), Nishad (Ni).
- Achal Swaras: Sa and Pa.
- Number of Shrutis: 22.
- Saptak: The complete gamut of 12 Swaras.
Extra Practice Questions
- Which Swara is the only one that can be Tivra? (Answer: Ma)
- How many Swaras are considered Achal? (Answer: 2)
- What is the full name of the note ‘Ni’? (Answer: Nishad)
- Which ancient text describes Swaras extensively? (Answer: Natya Shastra)
- Does a Swara have a fixed frequency in Hertz? (Answer: Yes, relative to the tonic Sa)
Content created and reviewed by the CBSE Quiz Editorial Team based on the latest NCERT textbooks and CBSE syllabus. Our goal is to help students practice concepts clearly, confidently, and exam-ready through well-structured MCQs and revision content.