According to Natyasastra, musical instruments are classified into how many categories?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Four
Explanation:
According to the ancient treatise 'Natyasastra' authored by sage Bharata Muni, musical instruments are classified into four distinct categories based on how they produce sound:
Tata Vadhya (Chordophones): Stringed instruments (e.g., Sitar, Veena).
Sushira Vadhya (Aerophones): Wind/blown instruments (e.g., Flute, Shehnai).
Avanaddha Vadhya (Membranophones): Percussion instruments with a stretched membrane/skin (e.g., Dhol, Tabla).
Ghana Vadhya (Idiophones): Solid instruments that produce sound through striking or clashing (e.g., Manjira, cymbals).
Additional Points:
The Natyasastra is considered the foundational text of Indian classical performing arts (dance, drama, and music) and is often referred to as the 'Fifth Veda'.
Important Questions and Answers:
Question: Who is the author of the ancient text 'Natyasastra'?
Answer: Sage Bharata Muni.
Question: How many categories of musical instruments are outlined in the Natyasastra?
Answer: Four categories.