Theka Recitation: Keharwa (Dugun) MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers the Class IX Hindustani Music Melodic Instruments (Code 035) Practical Unit. It focuses on the topic of Theka Recitation for Keharwa Tala, specifically reciting the theka with Dugun (double speed) and keeping tala with handbeats. Test your knowledge, check your score, and download the answer key PDF for revision.
About Keharwa Tala and Dugun Recitation
In Hindustani Classical Music, Keharwa is one of the most popular and commonly used Talas, especially in light music, folk, and semi-classical genres. For Class 9 students (Melodic Instruments), mastering the recitation of the Theka with handbeats is a fundamental practical skill.
Key Features of Keharwa Tala
Keharwa is an 8-beat cycle (Matras). It is divided into two parts (Vibhags) of 4 beats each. The distribution is uniform, making it symmetric and easy to keep rhythm.
- Matras (Beats): 8
- Vibhags (Divisions): 2 (4 + 4)
- Tali (Clap): On the 1st beat (Sam)
- Khali (Wave): On the 5th beat
The Theka Structure
| Matra | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bol | Dha | Ge | Na | Ti | Na | Ka | Dhi | Na |
| Sign | X (Sam) | – | – | – | 0 (Khali) | – | – | – |
Understanding Dugun (Double Speed)
Dugun means reciting two matras of the original theka in the time duration of one beat. When performing Dugun for Keharwa:
- You recite “Dha-Ge” in the 1st beat, “Na-Ti” in the 2nd beat, and so on.
- The entire cycle of 8 beats (theka) is completed in just 4 beats of time.
- To fill the full 8-beat cycle of the Tala, you must recite the entire theka twice in Dugun speed.
Practical Tips for Recitation
When reciting with handbeats:
- Clap (Tali): Hit the left palm with the right fingers on the 1st beat.
- Wave (Khali): Shake the hand or show an open palm on the 5th beat to indicate the empty section.
- Ensure the pronunciation of bols (Dha, Ge, Na, Ti, etc.) is clear and distinct.
- Maintain a steady Laya (tempo) throughout the recitation.

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