In the context of Indian devotional music, which of the following correctly describes the contribution of Lal Ded(Lalleshwari)?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer: She was a Kashmiri mystic who conveyed philosophical messages through Vakh verses.
Explanation:
- Lal Ded (Lalleshwari): She is also known as 'Lalla' or 'Lal Arifa'. She was a great Kashmiri poetess and Shaivite mystic of the 14th century.
- Vakh: The four-line verses composed by her are called 'Vakh'. The literal meaning of 'Vakh' is 'speech' or 'utterance'.
- Philosophy: Her *Vakhs* emphasize self-realization, humanity, and a direct connection with God. She opposed caste discrimination and external rituals.
- Cultural Significance: She is considered the mother of modern Kashmiri language and literature. Her ideas deeply influenced the 'Rishi Order' (Rishi Silsila) in Kashmir.
Additional Facts:
- Braj Bhasha and Krishna: This contribution is primarily associated with Mirabai or Surdas.
- Carnatic Music: Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Shyama Shastri (the Musical Trinity) hold a prominent place in this tradition.
- Dhrupad: This is an ancient style of Hindustani classical music, with which musicians like Tansen were associated.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
- Question: Who introduced the 'Vakh' genre in Kashmiri literature?
- Answer: Lal Ded (Lalleshwari).
- Question: Which spiritual ideology did Lal Ded follow?
- Answer: Kashmiri Shaivism.
- Question: Who were the renowned scholars who translated 'Lal Vakh' into English?
- Answer: Richard Temple and Jayalal Kaul.