Question

Which of the following musical instrument is not used in Assam's Bihū dance?

• A. Dhol
• B. Takka
• C. Violin
• D. Gagana

Hint:

For questions about folk traditions, focus on what is authentic and traditional versus modern additions. Western instruments like the violin, guitar, or keyboard are almost always later additions to Indian folk music ensembles.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify which instrument from the given list is not a traditional part of the ensemble for the Bihu dance of Assam.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The traditional musical ensemble for Bihu is quite specific and has a distinct rustic sound. The core instruments include:
1. Dhol: A large, double-sided barrel drum played with a stick and a hand. It provides the main rhythm and is indispensable to Bihu.
4. Gagana: A small instrument made of bamboo, played by holding it between the teeth and plucking its reed. It is a type of jaw harp and is a characteristic Bihu instrument.
Other traditional instruments include the \textit{Pepa} (a hornpipe made from a buffalo horn), \textit{Toka} (a bamboo clapper), and \textit{Xutuli} (a clay whistle).
2. Takka: While less common than the Dhol, 'Takka' or similar percussion instruments can be found in various folk traditions. However, the most definitively non-traditional instrument on the list is the Violin.
3. Violin: The violin is a Western classical string instrument. While modern and fusion Bihu performances may sometimes incorporate it for melodic accompaniment, it is not a part of the traditional Bihu ensemble. The question refers to the established tradition of the dance.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Violin is not a traditional musical instrument used in Assam's Bihu dance. Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.