Theka Recitation: Dadra MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This Class IX Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034) quiz covers the Practical unit topic of Theka Recitation for Dadra Tala, focusing on Dugun with handbeats. Test your knowledge of matras, vibhags, and rhythm structures, then submit to view your score and download the PDF answer key.

Overview of Dadra Tala

Dadra Tala is a highly popular rhythmic cycle in Hindustani music, consisting of 6 beats (Matras). It is widely used in light classical forms such as Dadra, Thumri, Ghazals, and Folk music. The structure is symmetrical, divided into two equal parts.

Key Structural Elements

  • Matras: 6 Beats in total.
  • Vibhags (Divisions): 2 Vibhags with 3 Matras each (3 + 3).
  • Sam (First Beat): The first beat is the most emphatic point, marked by a Clap (Taali).
  • Khali (Empty Beat): The 4th beat marks the beginning of the second division and is shown by a wave of the hand.

Theka and Bols

Matra 1 2 3 4 5 6
Bol Dha Dhi Na Dha Tu Na
Sign X (Sam) 2 3 0 (Khali) 2 3

Understanding Dugun (Double Speed)

Dugun refers to reciting or playing two bols (syllables) in the duration of one matra (beat). To recite Dadra in Dugun:

  • You must fit the entire cycle of 6 bols (Dha Dhi Na Dha Tu Na) into 3 beats of time.
  • Therefore, in one full cycle of the tala (6 beats), the Theka is recited twice.
  • Notation Example (One Matra): (Dha Dhi) inside a single beat crescent.

Quick Revision Points

  • Dadra has equal distribution of beats (3-3).
  • It is shorter than Teen Tala or Ektala.
  • The hand gestures involve one Clap (on 1) and one Wave (on 4).
  • Essential for practical recitation exams in Class IX.

Extra Practice Questions

  1. Write the notation of Dadra Tala in Thah (Single speed).
  2. Demonstrate the hand gestures for Dadra while reciting the bols in Dugun.
  3. Why is the 4th beat called Khali in Dadra?
  4. Compare the Vibhag structure of Dadra with Keherwa Tala.
  5. Recite the Theka of Dadra starting from Khali.