Theka Recitation: Ektala MCQs Quiz | Class 9
Class: IX | Subject: Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034) | Unit: Practical | Topic: Theka Recitation: Ektala | Covering topics: Dugun with handbeats. Test your understanding of the Tala structure and submit to download the PDF solution.
Overview of Ektala
Ektala is a very popular Tala in Hindustani Classical Music, often used for Bada Khayal and Vilambit compositions, as well as Drut compositions. In Class 9 Practical (Code 034), students are expected to recite the Theka of Ektala with handbeats in both Thah (single speed) and Dugun (double speed).
Key Structure Details
- Matras (Beats): 12 Matras
- Vibhags (Divisions): 6 Vibhags
- Distribution: 2 matras in each Vibhag (2-2-2-2-2-2)
- Tali (Claps): On matras 1, 5, 9, and 11
- Khali (Wave/Empty): On matras 3 and 7
- Sam (First Beat): On matra 1 (Dhin)
Theka and Notation
| Matra | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol | Dhin | Dhin | DhaGe | Tirakit | Tu | Na | Kat | Ta | DhaGe | Tirakit | Dhin | Na |
| Sign | X | 0 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 4 |
Understanding Dugun (Double Speed)
Dugun involves reciting two matras (syllables) of the original Theka within the duration of one beat. Since Ektala has 12 matras:
- In Dugun, the entire cycle of 12 matras is completed in 6 beats duration.
- To complete one full round of 12 beats in Dugun, the Theka must be recited twice.
- Grouping: (DhinDhin) (DhaGeTirakit) (TuNa) (KatTa) (DhaGeTirakit) (DhinNa).
Quick Revision Points
- Ektala has the same number of matras as Chautala (12 matras) but the internal division and style differ.
- The Khali falls on the 3rd and 7th matras.
- It is one of the few Talas with 6 Vibhags of 2 matras each.
Extra Practice Questions
- Q: Which matra corresponds to the 3rd Tali in Ektala?
A: 9th Matra. - Q: How do you show Khali with your hand?
A: By waving the hand to the right or opening the palm. - Q: What are the bols of the last Vibhag (11-12)?
A: Dhin Na. - Q: If reciting Ektala in Dugun, which bol comes on the 2nd beat?
A: DhaGe and Tirakit combined. - Q: What is the sign for Sam?
A: ‘X’ (Cross).
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