SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 20

Solution: The correct answer is Dhrupad : One of the oldest and most austere forms of Hindustani classical music.
Explanation:
☛ Dhrupad is the oldest surviving form of Hindustani classical vocal music, known for its spiritual, grand, and austere nature.
☛ Its origins are traced back to ancient chanting traditions and the Sama Veda, reaching its zenith during the Mughal era under musicians like Swami Haridas and Tansen.
☛ Bandish is a fixed, structured melodic composition bound by a specific raga and tala, rather than mere rhythmic improvisation.
☛ Alap is a slow, unmetered, and rhythm-free melodic introduction to a raga, performed before the entry of the percussion instrument.
☛ Tarana is a vocal style attributed to Amir Khusrau, composed using rhythmic syllables (such as ta, na, da, dim) rather than being a purely instrumental form.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Gharanas of Dhrupad: Four main banis (styles) exist in Dhrupad—Gauhar, Khandar, Nauhar, and Dagar.
☛ Accompaniment: Traditionally, Dhrupad performances are accompanied by the Pakhawaj (a barrel-shaped drum) and the Tanpura.
☛ Khayal: A lighter and more flexible form of Hindustani vocal music that gained prominence after Dhrupad, emphasizing creative ornamentation and improvisation.
☛ Natya Shastra: Written by Bharata Muni, it is the foundational Sanskrit text on performing arts, music, and drama.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which Mughal Emperor's court featured the legendary Dhrupad singer Tansen? → Akbar
☛ Who is widely credited with the invention of the Sitar and the Tarana style? → Amir Khusrau
☛ Which percussion instrument is traditionally used as an accompaniment in Dhrupad music? → Pakhawaj
☛ What is the ancient treatise 'Brihaddeshi', which defined the concept of Raga, authored by? → Matanga Muni
☛ Which ancient Veda is considered the primary root of Indian classical music? → Sama Veda