RA.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 1999

Cross-Cultural Musical Instruments

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which among the following musical instruments is the finest example of HinduMuslim harmony in musical instruments?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The evolution of Indian musical instruments often reflects the physical synthesis of Central Asian and indigenous Indian designs.

Explanation The Sitar is traditionally credited to Amir Khusrau, who combined the structures of the Iranian Tambora and the Indian Veena.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The Sitar represents a mechanical and acoustic blend of two cultures.
Logic 2: Khusrau used this hybrid instrument to accompany new melodic styles like Iman and Sajgari, which themselves were blends of Persian and Indian melodies.

Active Recall

Question

How does the Sitar physically represent harmony?

Answer

By adopting the long neck of the Persian lute (Sehtar) and the gourd-resonator principles of the Indian Veena.

Core Insight

The Sitar is not just an instrument but a physical manifestation of the syncretic 'Ganga-Jamuni' culture of medieval India.