Question

In which category of instruments Tabla belongs ?

• A. Sushir
• B. Ghan
• C. Avanadh
• D. Tantra

Hint:

Remember the Sanskrit roots to easily classify instruments: 'Sushira' (hollow), 'Ghana' (solid), 'Avanaddha' (covered), and 'Tata' (string/thread). A tabla is 'covered' with skin, so it is Avanaddha.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the classification of the Tabla according to the ancient Indian system of instrument categorization.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Indian system classifies instruments into four main categories based on how they produce sound:
- Sushira Vadya: Aerophones or wind instruments (e.g., Flute, Shehnai).
- Ghana Vadya: Idiophones or solid instruments that are struck (e.g., Ghatam, Manjira).
- Avanaddha Vadya: Membranophones or instruments with a stretched skin/membrane (e.g., Tabla, Mridangam, Dhol). The word 'Avanaddha' means 'covered'.
- Tantra/Tata Vadya: Chordophones or string instruments (e.g., Sitar, Veena).
Since the Tabla is a drum that produces sound from a vibrating skin head, it belongs to the Avanaddha Vadya category.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Tabla belongs to the Avanaddha category of instruments.