Question

Who is the author of Sangeeta Sampradaya Pradarshini?

• A. Matanga
• B. Subbarama Dikshitar
• C. Venkatamakhi
• D. Somanatha

Hint:

Remember: Subbarama Dikshitar documented the Dikshitar lineage’s tradition through his Sangeeta Sampradaya Pradarshini, making it a critical reference in Carnatic musicology.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Sangeeta Sampradaya Pradarshini is a monumental musicological treatise authored by Subbarama Dikshitar in the early 20th century. It is one of the most authoritative texts on Carnatic music and provides detailed descriptions of ragas, compositions, and lakshanas (characteristics).
It serves as a vital link to the musical tradition of the Dikshitar parampara (lineage).
The work includes notations of Muthuswami Dikshitar's compositions and offers insights into the raga system based on the Venkatamakhi school.
Explanation of Other Options:

(A) Matanga: Author of Brihaddesi, an earlier musicological text from the 5th–7th century.
(C) Venkatamakhi: Known for the Chaturdandi Prakasika and the Melakarta scheme; not the author of SSP.
(D) Somanatha: Composer and musicologist, but not related to SSP.
Thus, the correct answer is option (B).