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GNDU QUESTION PAPERS 2022
BA/BSc 4
th
SEMESTER
MUSIC (Instrumental)
Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 50
Note: Aempt Five quesons in all, selecng at least One queson from each secon. The
Fih queson may be aempted from any secon. All quesons carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Write the historical development of Indian music during the period from 15th to 17th
century.
2. Dene Sankiran and Ashraya Raga in detail.
SECTION-B
3. Write about the origin and development of dierent Gharanas of Sitar.
4. Write life sketch and contribuon of Ustad Mushtak Ali Khan towards music.
SECTION-C
5. Give an introducon of Ada Chautal and Jhap Taal.
6. Compare Raag Sohni and Puriya.
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SECTION-D
7. What do you mean by Var Gayan Shailly? Explain in detail.
8. Which types of music instruments are used in Gurmat Sangeet ? Write their importance.
GNDU ANSWER PAPERS 2022
BA/BSc 4
th
SEMESTER
MUSIC (Instrumental)
Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 50
Note: Aempt Five quesons in all, selecng at least One queson from each secon. The
Fih queson may be aempted from any secon. All quesons carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Write the historical development of Indian music during the period from 15th to 17th
century.
Ans: 🌟 The Beautiful Journey of Indian Music (15th17th Century)
Imagine going back in time to India between the 15th and 17th centuries. The country was
full of kingdoms, palaces, saints, temples, Sufi shrines, and rich cultural exchange. This was a
period when Indian music did not just surviveit blossomed, transformed, and reached
amazing heights. What we today proudly call Hindustani Classical Music and Carnatic
Classical Music largely took their mature form during this time.
Let us travel through this beautiful musical journey in a simple and enjoyable way.
🎵 A Time of Change and Transformation
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Before the 15th century, Indian music was mostly united under the common umbrella of
ancient classical traditions rooted in the Vedas, Natya Shastra, and medieval musical
treatises. But from the 15th century onward, India began to witness major social, cultural,
and political changes.
Two big developments took place:
The separation of North Indian and South Indian classical music traditions
The rise of devotional music and court music
These changes were not sudden; they evolved slowly, beautifully, and naturally.
🎶 Birth of Hindustani and Carnatic Music as Separate Systems
This was one of the most important developments of this period.
🌺 In North India: Hindustani Classical Music Blossomed
North India, during the 15th17th century, came under Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rule.
This brought Indian music into contact with Persian and Central Asian musical traditions.
But instead of destroying Indian music, this blend made it even richer and more expressive.
This fusion created what we today proudly call:
👉 Hindustani Classical Music
It became known for:
✨ Emotional depth
✨ Long improvisations
✨ Rich ragas
✨ Beautiful vocal styles
Court musicians were respected like gems. Kings and emperors supported them, and music
grew in sophistication.
🌼 In South India: Carnatic Music Became Stronger and Systematic
Meanwhile, in the South, powerful kingdoms like:
✔ Vijayanagara Empire
✔ Nayaka rulers
✔ Local royal courts
strongly supported music and culture.
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Here, music continued to remain close to:
👉 Temple traditions
👉 Bhakti (devotional) movement
👉 South Indian classical roots
Slowly, Carnatic Music developed into a more structured, devotional, and disciplined
system, focusing deeply on compositions and devotional lyrics.
So, by the end of this era, India had two shining musical traditions, each unique and
beautiful in its own way.
The Role of the Bhakti and Sufi Movements
Music during this time was not only for kings and courts. It entered the hearts of ordinary
people because of two powerful spiritual movements.
🙏 The Bhakti Movement
The Bhakti saints believed:
👉 God lives in love, devotion, and song
👉 Music is one of the best ways to connect with God
Great saints used music to spread spiritual and social messages. Some important figures
include:
🎤 Saint Kabir spread universal love and criticized social evils
🎤 Guru Nanak used devotional hymns to teach equality and spirituality
🎤 Meerabai sang emotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna
🎤 Tulsidas and Surdas created bhajans full of devotion and emotion
Their songs were not meant for scholars onlythey were for common people, sung openly
in streets, temples, gatherings, and homes. This made music accessible, emotional, and
deeply connected to life.
🕌 The Sufi Movement and Qawwali
Parallel to Bhakti, Sufi saints used music to express divine love.
Their musical style is known as:
✨ Qawwali
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Sufi music created:
Deep emotional connection
Spiritual trance
Expression of love for God
Famous Sufi centers like Ajmer and Delhi became musical hubs. Music here was less about
rules and more about feeling, devotion, and spiritual experience.
👑 Mughal Courts and Royal Patronage
A very important reason for the growth of music during the 15th17th century was royal
support.
The Mughal emperors, especially:
🌟 Akbar (one of the greatest supporters of arts)
loved music deeply. His court was filled with legendary musicians.
And when we talk about this period, one name shines like a star:
🎶 Miyan Tansen 🎶
Tansen is remembered as:
✔ A musical genius
✔ A master of ragas
✔ A creator of many new ragas
✔ A symbol of musical excellence
Under such patronage, music developed technically, artistically, and culturally.
🎼 Development of New Musical Forms
During this time, many new styles and forms of singing evolved.
In North India (Hindustani Music):
🎵 Dhrupad serious, devotional, majestic
🎵 Khayal more imaginative and expressive (became popular slightly later)
🎵 Thumri and Dadra lighter and emotional
In South India (Carnatic Music):
🎵 Kriti structured devotional compositions
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🎵 Varnam foundational pieces
🎵 Keertanam and Padams lyrical and expressive
Music was becoming not only technically rich but also emotionally colorful.
📚 Growth of Musical Literature
This period also saw great scholars writing about music. Important musical texts were
composed explaining:
✔ Ragas
✔ Talas
✔ Musical rules
✔ Performance traditions
This helped in preserving knowledge and systematizing music.
🎤 Rise of Gharanas and Musical Traditions
In North India, different musical families and schools developed. These were known as:
🏠 Gharanas
Each gharana had its own style, personality, and technique. This made Hindustani music
diverse and vibrant.
🌈 Conclusion: A Golden Era of Indian Music
So, when we look at the 15th to 17th century, we realize it was not just a period of history
it was a creative revolution in Indian music.
During this time:
✔ Hindustani and Carnatic music took their distinct identities
✔ Bhakti and Sufi saints filled music with devotion and humanity
✔ Mughal courts enriched musical excellence
✔ New forms, styles, and ragas were born
✔ Music reached both palaces and the hearts of common people
This era truly shaped the foundation of the musical traditions that India proudly treasures
even today.
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2. Dene Sankiran and Ashraya Raga in detail.
Ans: 🎶 Sankirna and Ashraya Raga Explained
🌟 Introduction
Indian classical music is a vast system built on ragasmelodic frameworks that define how
notes are used to create emotion and atmosphere. But ragas are not all alike. Some are
pure and simple, while others are complex blends. To classify them, musicians use terms like
Sankirna Raga and Ashraya Raga.
👉 In simple words: Sankirna ragas are fusion ragas, while Ashraya ragas are foundation
ragas.
🌟 Sankirna Raga
📖 Definition
A Sankirna Raga is one that does not belong neatly to a single thaat or parent scale. Instead,
it mixes features from multiple ragas or thaats. The word Sankirna means mixed or
composite.
🌟 Characteristics of Sankirna Raga
1. Mixed Origin: Derived from two or more ragas.
2. Flexibility: Allows creative blending of notes and phrases.
3. Complexity: Harder to classify, often debated among scholars.
4. Unique Identity: Despite borrowing, Sankirna ragas develop their own personality.
🌟 Examples of Sankirna Raga
Raga Basant Bahar: A blend of Raga Basant and Raga Bahar.
Raga Nat Bhairav: Combines elements of Raga Nat and Raga Bhairav.
Raga Malkauns Kafi: Mixes Malkauns with Kafi.
👉 These ragas feel like hybridscarrying flavors of their parents but sounding distinct.
🌟 Importance of Sankirna Raga
Expands the creative scope of classical music.
Allows musicians to experiment with new melodic colors.
Keeps the tradition dynamic and evolving.
🌟 Ashraya Raga
📖 Definition
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An Ashraya Raga is the principal raga of a thaat. It is the base or reference raga that
defines the structure of its parent scale. The word Ashraya means support or
foundation.
🌟 Characteristics of Ashraya Raga
1. Representative Role: Serves as the model raga for its thaat.
2. Structural Clarity: Clearly demonstrates the thaats notes and patterns.
3. Pedagogical Importance: Used to teach students the essence of a thaat.
4. Identity Marker: Helps classify other ragas under the same thaat.
🌟 Examples of Ashraya Raga
Bilawal Thaat → Raga Bilawal
Kalyan Thaat → Raga Yaman
Bhairav Thaat → Raga Bhairav
Kafi Thaat → Raga Kafi
Asavari Thaat → Raga Asavari
👉 Each Ashraya Raga is like the flagship of its thaat, showing its full character.
🌟 Importance of Ashraya Raga
Provides a clear framework for classification.
Simplifies learning by giving students a reference point.
Preserves the purity of thaats in the system.
🌟 Comparative Insight
Aspect
Sankirna Raga
Ashraya Raga
Meaning
Mixed raga, borrowing from multiple
sources
Base raga representing a thaat
Origin
Fusion of ragas/thaats
Fundamental to a thaat
Identity
Composite, hybrid
Pure, representative
Examples
Basant Bahar, Nat Bhairav
Yaman (Kalyan), Bhairav (Bhairav)
Role
Expands creativity
Provides structure and
classification
👉 Sankirna ragas are about innovation, while Ashraya ragas are about foundation.
🌟 Symbolic Meaning
Ashraya Raga: Symbolizes tradition, purity, and foundation.
Sankirna Raga: Symbolizes creativity, innovation, and evolution.
Together, they balance classical musicone preserving roots, the other expanding horizons.
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🌍 Final Thoughts
Indian classical music thrives on both structure and creativity. Ashraya ragas provide the
structure by anchoring thaats, while Sankirna ragas provide creativity by blending traditions.
Understanding both is essential for appreciating the depth of ragas.
SECTION-B
3. Write about the origin and development of dierent Gharanas of Sitar.
Ans: 🌟 Origin and Development of Different Gharanas of Sitar
When we talk about Indian classical music, especially the Sitar, we often hear the word
Gharana. Many students find this word confusing, but the idea behind it is actually very
simple and interesting.
Think of a Gharana like a musical family or school of thought. Just as families pass down
traditions, food habits, culture, and values, the great masters of Sitar developed their own
unique style of playing and passed it down to their students. These students then became
masters, trained their own disciples, and slowly a lineage was formed. This lineage is what
we call a Gharana.
Every Gharana of Sitar has its own way of:
Playing a raga
Using rhythm
Expressing emotions
Handling speed and improvisation
Designing musical phrases
Over time, these differences became strong identities, and today they form the rich heritage
of Indian classical Sitar music.
Let us now understand the major Sitar Gharanas, their origin, and how they developed.
🎵 1. The Senia (Delhi) Gharana The Royal Beginning
The story of Sitar Gharanas truly begins with the Senia Gharana, considered the oldest and
most respected tradition. The word Senia comes from the name of the legendary court
musician of Emperor Akbar, Tansen. Though Tansen himself did not play Sitar, his
descendants and disciples shaped the style of string instruments.
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Later, in Delhi, musicians carried forward this musical heritage and adapted it into Sitar
playing. Thats why this style is also called the Delhi Gharana.
⭐ Main Features:
Strong connection with Dhrupad tradition, which is ancient, serious, and devotional.
Slow and deep development of Raga.
Clear, powerful strokes on strings.
Great importance to purity of swara (notes).
This Gharana created the foundation on which later Gharanas developed.
🎵 2. Etawah (Imdadkhani) Gharana The Emotional Voice of the Sitar
If the Senia Gharana was royal and dignified, the Etawah or Imdadkhani Gharana brought
emotional beauty, sweetness, and expressiveness to the Sitar. It was founded by Ustad
Imdad Khan, and the Gharana developed mainly in Etawah (Uttar Pradesh), hence the
name.
Later, great maestros like:
Ustad Enayat Khan
Ustad Vilayat Khan
made this Gharana world famous.
⭐ Special Contribution: Gayaki Ang
This Gharana introduced something magical in Sitar playing Gayaki Ang, which means
playing the Sitar like a human voice sings. Instead of only following instrumental techniques,
musicians tried to imitate the softness, emotional curves, and delicate expressions of vocal
music.
⭐ Features:
Smooth meend (gliding between notes)
Deep emotional expression
Melodic beauty
Natural, flowing musical phrases
Because of this, listeners often feel that the Sitar is singing rather than just playing.
🎵 3. Maihar Gharana A Blend of Power and Perfection
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The Maihar Gharana is another very powerful and influential sitar tradition. It developed
under the great master Ustad Allauddin Khan, who was the mentor of two legendary
musicians:
Pandit Ravi Shankar (Sitar maestro known globally)
Ustad Ali Akbar Khan (Sarod legend)
The Gharana gets its name from the town Maihar in Madhya Pradesh, where Allauddin
Khan worked and trained many artists.
⭐ Features of Maihar Gharana:
Strong influence of Dhrupad and instrumental purity
A perfect balance between melody and rhythm
Very structured and disciplined approach
Powerful and energetic playing style
Pandit Ravi Shankar took this Gharana to the world stage. He performed internationally,
collaborated with Western musicians, and made the Sitar globally recognized. Because of
this, many people outside India associate the Sitar mainly with his style.
🎵 4. Lucknow Gharana Grace and Beauty
Lucknow has always been known for its culture, elegance, and artistic beauty. The Lucknow
Gharana of Sitar also reflects this cultural richness.
This Gharana has a close relationship with the Kathak dance tradition and the musical style
of Awadh court culture. That is why its music feels graceful, romantic, and expressive.
⭐ Features:
Soft and delicate playing
Elegant ornamentation of notes
Emotional depth
Artistic beauty rather than forceful power
It focuses on aesthetic beauty, making the listener feel emotions deeply.
🎵 5. Bishnupur Gharana The Eastern Musical Heritage
The Bishnupur Gharana developed mainly in Bengal. Though it is more famous for vocal
music and other instruments, its influence also touched the Sitar.
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⭐ Features:
Deeply rooted in devotional tradition
Simplicity and purity of Raga
Sweetness of tone
Calm and spiritual expression
This Gharana helped in spreading classical music culture in Eastern India and contributed to
the growth of Sitar learning traditions there.
🌱 How These Gharanas Developed Over Time
At first, Sitar was a simple instrument. But as artists explored, experimented, and expressed
their creativity, different playing styles appeared. These styles slowly became traditions
because:
Masters taught their disciples
Disciples preserved the style
Each generation refined it further
Thus, what started as individual creativity turned into distinct musical identities.
With time, these Gharanas did not remain restricted to families alone; they became open
schools of music, where students from anywhere could learn, provided they were dedicated
and disciplined.
🌍 Sitar Gharanas in the Modern World
Today, music is global. Students learn from recordings, seminars, and workshops. Still,
Gharanas continue to exist because they are not just styles, they are musical
philosophies. They teach discipline, respect for tradition, and deep understanding of ragas.
Modern musicians sometimes blend elements of different Gharanas, creating richer music,
while still respecting the old traditions.
🎯 Conclusion
The different Gharanas of Sitar are not just divisions; they are beautiful branches of the
same musical tree.
The Senia/Delhi Gharana gave royal dignity
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The Etawah Gharana added emotional voice-like beauty
The Maihar Gharana brought power, depth, and global recognition
The Lucknow and Bishnupur Gharanas enriched grace and devotional sweetness
Together, they shaped the glorious journey of the Sitar from royal courts to international
concert stages. Understanding these Gharanas helps us appreciate not only the instrument
but also the cultural, emotional, and historical richness of Indian classical music.
4. Write life sketch and contribuon of Ustad Mushtak Ali Khan towards music.
Ans: 🎶 Life Sketch and Contributions of Ustad Mushtaq Ali Khan
🌟 Early Life and Training
Born: 20 June 1911, Banaras (Varanasi), India.
Musical Lineage: He was trained by his father, Ashiq Ali Khan, who himself had
studied sitar under Barkatullah Khan, a descendant of Masit Senthe legendary
creator of the Masitkhani gat, a slow and dignified sitar composition style.
From childhood, Mushtaq Ali Khan was immersed in the Senia tradition, which
traced back to Tansen, the great musician of Emperor Akbars court.
👉 His upbringing ensured he inherited not just technical skill but also the philosophical
depth of classical music.
🌟 Career and Style
Mushtaq Ali Khan became famous as a sitar, surbahar, and pakhawaj player.
His style was austere and pure, avoiding flashy ornamentations like murki and
zamzama.
He emphasized:
o Dhrupad-inspired alap: Slow, meditative unfolding of ragas.
o Jod and Jhala: Derived from rudra veena techniques, giving his sitar a
majestic resonance.
o Clean sound: Each note was deliberate, precise, and spiritually charged.
👉 His performances were less about entertainment and more about creating a
contemplative atmosphere.
🌟 Contributions to Music
1. Preservation of Senia Style
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At a time when sitar music was becoming more decorative and fast-paced, Mushtaq
Ali Khan preserved the traditional Senia style.
His music kept alive the dignity and depth of dhrupad-based sitar playing.
2. Compositions (Razakhani Gats)
He composed many memorable razakhani gats (fast-paced sitar compositions).
He believed these compositions were natural, arising from musical logic rather than
artificial ornamentation.
3. Performances Across India
He performed at thousands of venues, mesmerizing audiences with his spellbinding
music.
His concerts were known for their spiritual intensity, leaving listeners in awe.
4. Awards and Recognition
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1968): National recognition for his contributions.
D.Litt from Rabindra Bharati University (1973/74): Honored for his scholarship and
artistry.
Professor Emeritus: Appointed by the Government of India in recognition of his
cultural contributions.
5. Mentorship and Legacy
Though he did not train many disciples formally, his recordings and style influenced
generations of sitar players.
He showed that tradition and purity could coexist with creativity.
🌟 Personality and Philosophy
Mushtaq Ali Khan was known for his discipline and humility.
He believed music was a spiritual practice, not just performance.
His refusal to adopt modern ornamentations reflected his commitment to
authenticity.
👉 He saw himself as a custodian of tradition, ensuring that the soul of sitar music
remained intact.
🌟 Legacy
Mushtaq Ali Khan remains a symbol of purity in sitar playing.
His recordings are studied by serious students of classical music.
He is remembered as a guardian of tradition, a composer of logic-driven gats, and a
performer who elevated music into meditation.
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📊 Summary Table
Aspect
Details
Birth
20 June 1911, Banaras
Death
21 July 1989
Training
Senia tradition via father Ashiq Ali Khan
Instruments
Sitar, Surbahar, Pakhawaj
Style
Austere, dhrupad-inspired, clean sound
Contributions
Preserved Senia style, composed razakhani gats, performed widely
Awards
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1968), D.Litt (1973/74)
Legacy
Symbol of purity, spiritual depth in sitar music
🌍 Final Thoughts
Ustad Mushtaq Ali Khan was not just a musicianhe was a guardian of tradition. By
preserving the Senia style and resisting the lure of modern ornamentation, he ensured that
sitar music retained its spiritual depth. His life was a journey of devotion to purity,
discipline, and creativity.
SECTION-C
5. Give an introducon of Ada Chautal and Jhap Taal.
Ans: When we listen to Indian classical music or watch an Indian classical dance
performance, one hidden hero is always working quietly in the background. This hero is
tālathe rhythmic cycle that keeps the performance alive, steady, and meaningful. Just like
the heartbeat keeps our body alive, tāla keeps music and dance alive. Without rhythm,
music becomes confusing, and dance loses its beauty. Two very important and interesting
tālas used especially in Hindustani classical musicmainly in Dhrupad, Dhamar, and
instrumental musicare Āḍā Chautāl and Jhāp Tāla.
Let us understand them in the simplest and friendliest way 😊
🌟 Understanding the Concept of Tāla First
Before jumping to Ada Chautal and Jhaptal, imagine you are clapping to a song. You clap in a
pattern. For example:
1234 | 1234
This repeating cycle is what musicians call tāla. Every tāla has:
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A fixed number of beats
A particular pattern of divisions
Stress or emphasis on certain beats
Hand gestures like clap (tālī) and wave (khālī)
Once you understand this, learning any tāla becomes fun instead of scary 🎶
🎼 What is Āḍā Chautāl?
Āḍā Chautāl is a very important tāla in Hindustani classical music, especially used in
Dhrupad style, one of the oldest and most powerful singing traditions of India. It is also used
in Pakhawaj playing and classical dance.
The word itself tells a story:
Chautāl usually means a tāla of 12 beats
Āḍā means "half" or "modified"
So, Āḍā Chautāl is like a modified version of Chautāl, but it is designed in a very special
rhythmic pattern.
🥁 Structure of Āḍā Chautāl
Āḍā Chautāl has 14 beats in one complete cycle.
But these 14 beats are not random. They are divided into groups in a beautiful rhythmic
arrangement:
2 + 4 + 4 + 2 + 2
This gives it a flowing yet powerful character. The beats usually feel steady, royal, and
slightly heavyperfect for the serious and devotional nature of Dhrupad music.
🎶 Why is Āḍā Chautāl Special?
Āḍā Chautāl is not a fast, playful tāla. It feels majestic, disciplined, and deeply expressive.
When singers or instrumentalists use it, the music sounds powerful, spiritual, and
emotional. That is why it is loved in:
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Dhrupad singing
Pakhawaj playing
Temple and devotional music traditions
It challenges artists because they must manage long rhythmic cycles carefully. A small
mistake in rhythm can disturb the whole performance. So mastering Āḍā Chautāl shows
excellence, maturity, and control.
You can think of Āḍā Chautāl like walking on a long, royal path with slow, graceful steps.
Each step is meaningful and adds dignity to the journey.
🎵 What is Jhāp Tāla?
Now let us move to another very popular and widely used tālaJhāp Tāla.
If Āḍā Chautāl is serious and royal, Jhāp Tāla is lively, playful, and energetic. It is extremely
common in both vocal and instrumental classical music, as well as in light classical styles
and even classical dance.
🥁 Structure of Jhāp Tāla
Jhāp Tāla has 10 beats in one cycle.
But again, these beats are divided smartly. The pattern is:
2 + 3 + 2 + 3
This gives it a very interesting rhythmic movement. It does not feel straight like Teentaal
(4+4+4+4). Instead, it has a mixture of short and slightly longer segments which creates
beauty in performance.
This irregularity makes Jhaptal fun and exciting. It keeps both performer and listener alert
and engaged.
✋ Claps and Waves in Jhāp Tāla
Jhāp Tāla is identified with three claps and one wave (khālī). This makes it easy to recognize
in practice sessions and concerts.
Students practicing rhythm always enjoy learning Jhāp Tāla because:
It is flexible
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It is popular
It is not too slow or too fast
It gives room for creativity
That is why teachers often introduce Jhaptal early to serious music students.
🎶 Where is Jhāp Tāla Used?
Jhāp Tāla is commonly used in:
Khayal singing
Instrumental music like sitar, sarod, tabla etc.
Light classical music
Classical dance forms like Kathak
Because of its 10-beat structure and exciting nature, artists can do a lot of rhythmic play,
improvisation, and creative variations.
🌺 Comparing Āḍā Chautāl and Jhāp Tāla
Let us understand them side by side:
Feature
Āḍā Chautāl
Jhāp Tāla
Beats
14
10
Nature
Serious, majestic, devotional
Lively, playful, energetic
Common Use
Dhrupad, Pakhawaj
Khayal, Instruments, Dance
Feel
Heavy and disciplined
Bright and expressive
So, even though both belong to Hindustani music, their mood, purpose, and expression are
different. One feels like a king walking in a palace. The other feels like a joyful bird dancing
in the sky.
🌟 Why Are These Tālas Important?
Learning these tālas is like understanding two different emotions of Indian classical rhythm.
They teach:
Discipline
Timing
Musical intelligence
Emotional expression through rhythm
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They also reflect India's rich musical heritage, where rhythm is not just counting numbers
but expressing feelings, devotion, imagination, and beauty.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Āḍā Chautāl and Jhāp Tāla may sound like complicated musical terms at first, but when we
break them down, they become very interesting and meaningful. They remind us that
rhythm in Indian classical music is not mechanical; it is alive, expressive, and deeply artistic.
Āḍā Chautāl teaches us depth, seriousness, and devotion, while Jhāp Tāla teaches joy,
creativity, and playful beauty. Together, they show how wonderfully diverse and powerful
Indian rhythm truly is.
If you ever listen to a classical performance next time, try to notice the rhythm. You will reali
6. Compare Raag Sohni and Puriya.
Ans: 🎶 Comparing Raag Sohni and Raag Puriya
🌟 Introduction
Indian classical music is built on ragasmelodic frameworks that define how notes are used
to create emotion. Some ragas are closely related, sharing the same parent scale (thaat) but
differing in personality. Raag Sohni and Raag Puriya are perfect examples. Both belong to
the Marwa thaat, yet they evoke very different moods.
👉 Think of them as siblings: they share the same family but have distinct temperaments.
🌟 Raag Sohni
📖 Structure
Thaat: Marwa
Aaroh (Ascending): Sa Ga Ma♯ Dha Ni Sa
Avaroh (Descending): Sa Ni Dha Ga Ma♯ Ga Re Sa
Vadi (Main Note): Dha
Samvadi (Second Important Note): Ga
Jati: Shadav (six notes in ascent)
Time: Early morning, before sunrise
🌟 Personality
Bright, restless, and flickering.
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Often described as fickle in nature.
Creates a mood of longing and sensuousness.
👉 Sohni is sometimes called Subah ki Puriyathe morning counterpart of Puriya.
🌟 Raag Puriya
📖 Structure
Thaat: Marwa
Aaroh (Ascending): Ni Re Ga Ma♯ Dha Ni Sa
Avaroh (Descending): Sa Ni Dha Ma♯ Ga Re Ni Sa
Vadi (Main Note): Ga
Samvadi (Second Important Note): Ni
Jati: Sampoorna (seven notes)
Time: Evening, around sunset
🌟 Personality
Serious, meditative, and introspective.
Focuses on the poorvang (lower tetrachord).
Creates a mood of solemnity and quiet reflection.
👉 Puriya is considered one of the most profound ragas of the Marwa family.
🌟 Key Differences
Aspect
Raag Sohni
Raag Puriya
Thaat
Marwa
Marwa
Jati
Shadav (6 notes in ascent)
Sampoorna (7 notes)
Aaroh
Sa Ga Ma♯ Dha Ni Sa
Ni Re Ga Ma♯ Dha Ni Sa
Avaroh
Sa Ni Dha Ga Ma♯ Ga Re Sa
Sa Ni Dha Ma♯ Ga Re Ni Sa
Vadi
Dha
Ga
Samvadi
Ga
Ni
Focus
Uttarang (upper tetrachord)
Poorvang (lower tetrachord)
Mood
Bright, restless, sensuous
Serious, meditative, solemn
Time
Morning (before sunrise)
Evening (sunset)
🌟 Similarities
Both belong to the Marwa thaat.
Both avoid the use of Pa (Pancham), which gives them a tense, unresolved quality.
Both emphasize the sharp Ma (Ma♯), a defining note of Marwa ragas.
👉 Despite these similarities, their emotional impact is very different.
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🌟 Musical Experience
Sohni: When performed, it feels like a sparkquick, bright, and flickering. The
absence of Re in ascent makes it sound lighter and more playful.
Puriya: When performed, it feels like a deep meditation. The emphasis on Ga and Ni
creates gravity and seriousness.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Though Raag Sohni and Raag Puriya share the same thaat, they are worlds apart in mood
and structure. Sohni is the morning star, restless and sensuous, while Puriya is the evening
sage, solemn and meditative. Together, they show how Indian classical music can create
contrasting emotions from the same set of notes.
SECTION-D
7. What do you mean by Var Gayan Shailly? Explain in detail.
Ans: When we study Indian classical music, devotional music, or Punjabi musical traditions,
we often come across the term Var Gayan Shaili (sometimes written as Vaar Gayaan
Shaili). At first glance, the term may look difficult, but once we break it down, it becomes
very easy and interesting to understand.
Lets understand the meaning first.
The word Var or Vaar means a ballad or a heroic-poetic composition. These are long
narrative songs that tell stories of bravery, devotion, sacrifice, historical events, or moral
teachings. In Punjabi and Sikh tradition, Vaars are very famous. Many such compositions
are also found in Guru Granth Sahib, such as Asa Di Vaar, and many more in Punjabi folk
tradition like Puran Bhagat di Vaar or Heer Ranjha Vaar. These songs are not meant just
for entertainment; they carry deep emotions, cultural values, history, and spiritual
messages.
Now, the next word Gayan simply means singing, and Shaili means style or method.
So, when we combine all three, the meaning becomes simple:
Var Gayan Shaili means:
The special style or technique of singing Vaars (ballads) in a musical, expressive, and
emotionally rich way.
It is not ordinary singing. It is a disciplined, artistic, and culturally rooted singing tradition
that has a unique identity of its own.
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🌟 Why is Var Gayan Shaili Important?
To understand its importance, imagine this:
If someone just reads a heroic story in a flat, boring tone, will you feel inspired? Probably
not. But if a singer sings the same story with powerful voice, emotion, rhythm, and
expression, suddenly the story comes alive. You feel the bravery of the hero, the pain of
sacrifice, the devotion of saints, and the emotions behind every line.
That is exactly what Var Gayan Shaili does.
It plays an important role in:
Preserving culture and history
Keeping folk traditions alive
Spreading moral and spiritual messages
Connecting people emotionally with the composition
Educating society through musical storytelling
🎶 Musical Features of Var Gayan Shaili
Var Gayan Shaili is not random singing. It follows certain musical rules and characteristics.
Some of the main features are:
Powerful and Expressive Voice
Since Vaars mostly talk about bravery, sacrifice, devotion, and deep human emotions, the
singer needs a strong, bold, and expressive voice. The singing style is not soft like lullabies;
it is energetic and filled with passion.
Use of Rhythm and Taal
Var singing generally follows rhythm. Different taals (beats) are used to maintain flow. The
rhythm helps in maintaining the narrative energy and keeps the listeners engaged.
Emotional Depth
Emotion is the soul of Var Gayan Shaili. The singer must feel the meaning of every line. If the
vaar is about war, the voice becomes powerful. If it is about sacrifice, the voice becomes
emotional. If it is devotional, the tone becomes peaceful and spiritual.
Group Participation
Traditionally, Vaars are not always sung by a single person. Sometimes a lead singer sings
and others respond like a chorus. This makes the singing more powerful and gives a
dramatic effect.
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Use of Traditional Musical Instruments
Instruments like dilruba, taus, harmonium, rabab, dholak, tabla, and chimta are commonly
used. They add beauty, rhythm, and strength to the singing. In Sikh tradition, traditional
instruments are especially emphasized.
Var Gayan Shaili in Sikh and Punjabi Tradition
Var Gayan Shaili has a very special place in Sikh musical heritage known as Gurmat Sangeet.
In Guru Granth Sahib, many Vaars are written in specific Raags. This means they are meant
to be sung in particular musical frameworks.
For example:
Asa Di Vaar is sung in Raag Asa
Other Vaars are also linked with different raags
This shows that in Sikh tradition, Var singing is not just emotional; it is musically scientific
and spiritual at the same time. It helps devotees connect deeply with Gurbani.
In Punjabi folk culture, Vaars are sung to narrate:
Historical battles
Folk love stories
Social struggles
Inspirational heroic tales
This helped common people learn history and moral lessons even when formal education
was rare.
✨ Educational and Cultural Importance
Var Gayan Shaili is not only about singing; it is a part of education, culture, and identity. It:
✔ Teaches history through music
✔ Inspires courage and moral values
✔ Builds emotional and spiritual connection
✔ Keeps language, heritage, and tradition alive
✔ Encourages unity and collective participation
Even today, you can hear Vaars in religious gatherings, cultural festivals, folk functions, and
universities. They continue to inspire people just like they did hundreds of years ago.
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A Simple Way to Understand
Think of Var Gayan Shaili like a musical storytelling tradition. Instead of reading history in a
dry textbook, people listened to singers who narrated it through music, voice expression,
rhythm, and emotion. That is why people remembered it more deeply and felt spiritually or
emotionally connected.
✅ Conclusion
To sum up in simple words, Var Gayan Shaili means the special style of singing Vaars
(ballads) in a powerful, rhythmic, emotional, and culturally rich manner. It is an important
musical tradition, especially in Sikh and Punjabi culture, where it preserves history, spreads
social and spiritual messages, and helps people emotionally connect with the past and with
divine teachings.
It is more than just singing
It is music + history + devotion + culture + emotion combined together.
8. Which types of music instruments are used in Gurmat Sangeet ? Write their importance.
Ans: 🎶 Instruments in Gurmat Sangeet and Their Importance
🌟 Introduction
Gurmat Sangeet is the sacred musical tradition of Sikhism, rooted in the teachings of the Sri
Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It is not merely music for entertainmentit is a spiritual practice, a
way of connecting with the divine through sound. The Gurus emphasized singing hymns
(Shabad Kirtan) in prescribed ragas, accompanied by instruments that enhance devotion
and discipline.
👉 In simple words: Gurmat Sangeet is the soul of Sikh worship, and its instruments are the
vehicles that carry the message of the Gurus into the hearts of listeners.
🌟 Types of Instruments Used in Gurmat Sangeet
1. Rabab
Introduced by Guru Nanak Dev Jis companion, Bhai Mardana.
A string instrument, played with a plectrum.
Produces deep, resonant tones that accompany the singing of shabads.
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👉 Importance: The Rabab symbolizes the beginning of Sikh musical tradition. It was the
first instrument used to spread the Gurus hymns, making it historically and spiritually
significant.
2. Saranda
A bowed string instrument, introduced by Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Smaller than the sarangi, with a soulful sound.
Often used in kirtan to accompany vocalists.
👉 Importance: The Saranda adds emotional depth, helping devotees feel the spiritual
essence of the shabad.
3. Dilruba
Introduced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
A combination of sitar and sarangi, played with a bow.
Easier to handle than the saranda, making it popular among kirtanias.
👉 Importance: The Dilruba was designed to make Gurmat Sangeet accessible to more
people, especially the Khalsa. Its melodious tone inspires devotion and concentration.
4. Taus
Also introduced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Shaped like a peacock, played with a bow.
Produces a majestic, resonant sound.
👉 Importance: The Taus represents beauty and grandeur. Its sound elevates the spiritual
atmosphere, reminding listeners of divine majesty.
5. Jori (Pakhawaj)
A percussion instrument, evolved from the pakhawaj.
Played in pairs, producing bass and treble sounds.
Provides rhythmic support in kirtan.
👉 Importance: The Jori maintains tempo and discipline in kirtan. Its beats symbolize the
heartbeat of the sangat (congregation), keeping everyone united in rhythm.
6. Tabla
Widely used in modern kirtan.
Consists of two drums, played with fingers and palms.
Provides intricate rhythmic patterns.
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👉 Importance: The tabla adds liveliness and variety to kirtan. Though not traditional, it has
become a common accompaniment, making Gurmat Sangeet more accessible to
contemporary audiences.
7. Harmonium
Introduced during colonial times, originally a European instrument.
A keyboard instrument with bellows, producing sustained notes.
Now the most common instrument in gurdwaras.
👉 Importance: While not traditional, the harmonium made kirtan easier to perform. It
allows singers to maintain pitch and melody, though purists argue it oversimplifies the
original Gurmat Sangeet style.
8. Other Instruments
Sarangi: Adds emotional depth, similar to the saranda.
Veena: Ancient string instrument, occasionally used.
Tanpura: Provides drone, maintaining the tonal base for ragas.
🌟 Importance of Instruments in Gurmat Sangeet
1. Spiritual Connection
Each instrument is designed to enhance the devotional mood. The Rabab, Saranda, and
Dilruba create soulful melodies that help the mind focus on the divine message.
2. Preservation of Tradition
The instruments introduced by the Gurus are not just musical toolsthey are part of Sikh
heritage. Playing them keeps alive the original soundscape envisioned by the Gurus.
3. Emotional Expression
String instruments like the Taus and Saranda convey emotionsjoy, longing, peacemaking
the shabad resonate deeply with the listeners heart.
4. Rhythmic Discipline
Percussion instruments like the Jori and Tabla provide rhythm, ensuring that kirtan is
performed with discipline and unity. Rhythm symbolizes order and harmony in spiritual
practice.
5. Accessibility
Instruments like the Dilruba and Harmonium made Gurmat Sangeet easier for ordinary Sikhs
to learn and perform. This democratized music, allowing more participation in kirtan.
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6. Community Bonding
When instruments accompany kirtan, the entire sangat (congregation) feels united. The
collective sound creates a shared spiritual experience.
📖 A Relatable Story
Imagine sitting in a gurdwara at dawn. The kirtan begins with the soft drone of the tanpura.
The Rabab joins in, its deep notes echoing the Gurus words. The Dilruba adds sweetness,
while the Jori keeps a steady rhythm. As the shabad unfolds, you feel transportedyour
worries fade, and your heart fills with peace.
👉 This is the power of Gurmat Sangeet instrumentsthey transform ordinary sound into
divine experience.
🌟 Summary Table
Instrument
Introduced By
Importance
Rabab
Guru Nanak Dev Ji
First instrument of Sikh tradition, spreads Gurus
hymns
Saranda
Guru Arjan Dev Ji
Adds emotional depth
Dilruba
Guru Gobind Singh
Ji
Accessible, melodious
Taus
Guru Gobind Singh
Ji
Majestic, grand sound
Jori
Traditional
Provides rhythm, unity
Tabla
Modern addition
Adds liveliness
Harmonium
Colonial era
Simplifies kirtan, widely used
Tanpura
Ancient
Provides drone, tonal base
🌍 Final Thoughts
Gurmat Sangeet is not just about singingit is about creating a spiritual atmosphere where
the soul connects with the divine. The instruments usedRabab, Saranda, Dilruba, Taus,
Jori, Tabla, Harmonium, and otherseach play a vital role in shaping this experience. They
preserve tradition, enhance devotion, and unite the sangat in rhythm and melody.
This paper has been carefully prepared for educaonal purposes. If you noce any
mistakes or have suggesons, feel free to share your feedback.
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