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SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 88

SSC CHSL - 17 Nov 2025 - Shift 1 • General Awareness • Q88

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The Patiala Gharana is notable for its rendering of which types of classical music?
I. Thumri
II. Khyal

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 3: Both I and II.

Explanation:

  • The Patiala Gharana is one of the most prominent and influential gharanas (schools) of Hindustani classical music. This gharana is renowned for its distinctive vocal style, which encompasses two primary forms of performance:
  • Khayal: The Patiala Gharana is world-famous for its intricate and melodious Khayal singing. Its defining characteristics include the agility of its taans (vocal runs) and the exquisite application of sargam (solfège).
  • Thumri: This gharana is equally notable for its Thumri singing. The Patiala style of Thumri features a beautiful blend of emotional expression (bhav) and the purity of the raga (melodic mode).
  • Founders: This gharana was established in the late 19th century by Ustad Ali Bakhsh Khan and Ustad Fateh Ali Khan (collectively known as the 'Aliya-Fattu' duo).

Key Points Regarding the Patiala Gharana (for Revision):

  • Questions concerning gharanas and their associated artists are frequently asked in competitive examinations (such as SSC and RRB):
  • Prominent Artist: The most celebrated vocalist of this gharana was Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. He elevated the Patiala style to unprecedented heights.
  • Other Vocalists: Ajay Chakraborty, Begum Parveen Sultana, and Munawwar Ali Khan are also associated with this gharana.
  • Distinctive Feature: The vocal technique of this gharana makes extensive use of gamak (vocal ornamentation) and intricate murkis (subtle vocal turns).

Other Major Gharanas and Their Characteristics:

Gwalior Gharana: Considered to be the oldest gharana of Hindustani music.

Kirana Gharana: Founded by Ustad Abdul Karim Khan; it is renowned for its Vilambit Khayal (slow-tempo Khayal).

Agra Gharana: Known for its fusion of Dhrupad-Dhamar and Khayal styles.

Important Question for Upcoming Examinations:

Question: To which gharana did Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan belong?

Answer: Patiala Gharana. Question: Which is the oldest Gharana (school) of Hindustani classical music?

Answer: The Gwalior Gharana.

Question: Who is known as the 'Queen of Thumri'?

Answer: Girija Devi (she belonged to the Banaras Gharana).