Question

In which musical text, four varieties of instruments are mentioned first?

• A. Purana
• B. Natyashastra
• C. Brihaddesi
• D. Sangita Ratnakara
• A. Violin
• B. Flute
• C. Veena
• D. Mridangam
• A. Thata
• B. Avanadha
• C. Ghana
• D. Sushira
• A. Mridangam
• B. Pakhawaj
• C. Ghatam
• D. Tabla
• A. Manjira
• B. Dilrooba
• C. Violin
• D. Nagaswaram

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the ancient text where the four-fold classification of musical instruments was first mentioned, according to the provided passage.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The passage introduces the four categories of instruments: Thata, Avanadha, Ghana, and Sushira.
The next sentence provides the answer directly: "We came across this classification first in Natyashastra."
Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on the explicit statement in the passage, the classification was first mentioned in the Natyashastra.

Answer 2

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the musical instrument associated with the Goddess Saraswati. This question tests general knowledge related to Indian culture and mythology, prompted by the passage's mention of instruments and deities.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The passage states, "musical instruments have been connected with various Gods and goddesses according to mythology."
While it doesn't specify which deity is linked to which instrument, it sets the context.
From general knowledge, Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, speech, wisdom, and learning, is traditionally depicted holding a Veena.
The passage also lists the Veena as an example of a 'Thata' instrument.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on common mythological and cultural depictions, Goddess Saraswati is associated with the Veena.

Answer 3

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the classification category of the Mridangam based on the descriptions given in the passage.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The passage defines the 'Avanadha' variety of instruments.
It states: "The Avandha variety are instruments with skin-covered heads, and are played by beating on both sides or one side."
Immediately following this description, it gives examples: "Mridangam, Pakhawaj, Tabla etc. come under this category."
Step 3: Final Answer:
The text explicitly places Mridangam under the Avanadha (spelled Avandha in the text) category.

Answer 4

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question requires identifying an instrument belonging to the 'Ghana Vadya' category from the given options, using the information in the passage.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
First, let's find the definition of Ghana Vadya in the text: "Ghana vadyas are those made with metal content. Manjira, Ghatom etc. are some of the examples of Ghana Vadya."
Now, let's examine the options:
- Mridangam, Pakhawaj, and Tabla are explicitly listed as examples of 'Avanadha' instruments.
- Ghatam (spelled 'Ghatom' in the text) is explicitly listed as an example of a 'Ghana Vadya'.
Step 3: Final Answer:
According to the passage, Ghatam is the only instrument in the options that belongs to the Ghana Vadya category.

Answer 5

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify an instrument from the 'Sushira Vadya' (wind instrument) category from the given list.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's refer to the passage for the definition and examples of Sushira Vadya.
The text states: "Sushira Vadya are those instruments with holes and make the sound by blowing air through the holes. Flute, Nagaswaram, Saxophone, Clarinet are some of the examples."
Now, let's analyze the options:
- Manjira is listed as a 'Ghana Vadya'.
- Violin is listed as a 'Thata' (string) instrument.
- Dilrooba is a string instrument played with a bow, so it would fall under the 'Thata' category, although it is not explicitly mentioned.
- Nagaswaram is explicitly mentioned as an example of a 'Sushira Vadya'.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on the direct information in the passage, Nagaswaram is a Sushira Vadya.