UPSC CSE Pre. 2012, GS Paper I

Indian Classical Music

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to Dhrupad, one of the major traditions of India that has been kept alive for centuries, which of the following statements are correct? 1. Dhrupad originated and developed in the Rajput kingdoms during the Mughal period. 2. Dhrupad is primalrily a devotional and spiritual music. 3. Dhrupad Alap uses Sanskrit syllables from Mantras. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Dhrupad is the oldest surviving style of Hindustani classical music, characterized by its austere and meditative nature.

Explanation It traces its roots to the Samaveda and reached its zenith in the court of Raja Man Singh Tomar and later Akbar (with Tansen).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is incorrect; while it was patronized by Rajput kings like Man Singh Tomar, it originated much earlier from temple chanting traditions.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct; it is deeply rooted in the Bhakti movement and spiritual practice.
Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct; the Alap (introductory part) uses abstract syllables derived from Sanskrit mantras (Om, Antar, Tar, Nar, etc.).

Active Recall

Question

What is the primary percussion accompaniment for Dhrupad?

Answer

The Pakhawaj, as the Tabla is considered too light for the heavy, resonant nature of Dhrupad.

Core Insight

Dhrupad focuses on the purity of the 'Swara' and the micro-tones (Shruti), minimizing ornamental flourishes found in Khayal.