SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 36

Solution: The correct answer is Carnatic and Hindustani.
Explanation:
☛ Indian classical music is broadly divided into two principal traditions: Hindustani music and Carnatic music.
☛ Hindustani music evolved primarily in Northern India and absorbed significant Persian and Central Asian influences over centuries.
☛ Carnatic music developed in Southern India (covering modern-day Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala) and retained its distinct indigenous, temple-oriented devotional style.
☛ Both traditions trace their foundational origins to ancient Indian texts like the Samaveda and Bharata Muni's Natyashastra.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Both traditions share two fundamental concepts: Raga (the melodic framework) and Tala (the rhythmic cycle).
☛ Major forms of Hindustani vocal music include Dhrupad, Khayal, Tarana, Thumri, and Tappa.
☛ Purandara Dasa is revered as the 'Pitamaha' (Father/Grandfather) of Carnatic music for structuring its pedagogy.
☛ Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri are celebrated as the Trinity of Carnatic Music.
☛ In Hindustani classical music, stylistic lineage and traditions are transmitted through the Gharana system (e.g., Gwalior, Agra, Kirana).
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which ancient Indian Veda is considered the foundation of Indian music? → Samaveda
☛ Who is traditionally referred to as the 'Pitamaha' of Carnatic music? → Purandara Dasa
☛ Which is considered the oldest surviving vocal genre of Hindustani classical music? → Dhrupad
☛ Who are collectively known as the 'Trinity of Carnatic Music'? → Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri
☛ Which ancient Sanskrit treatise on performing arts was authored by Bharata Muni? → Natyashastra