Question

Define the terms Arudi and Eduppu.

Hint:

Eduppu is the starting point in tala; Arudi is a pause or punctuation in a musical phrase, especially in varnams.

Answer 1

Eduppu: Eduppu refers to the exact point in the tala (rhythmic cycle) where the melody of a composition begins. It serves as the alignment between the tala and the sahitya (lyrics or swaras). Types of Eduppu:

Samam: The song starts right on the first beat of the tala.
Atita: The song starts before the first beat.
Anagata: The song starts after the first beat.
Arudi: Arudi is a pause or terminal point that signifies a resting place in a musical phrase or the conclusion of a section. It is especially important in Varna compositions and serves as a rhythmic punctuation mark to enhance musical structure. Use in Compositions:

In Tana Varnas, Arudi is often used at the end of a section.
It aids in balancing the tala and provides clarity in phrasing.