SarkariPYQ

SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 68

SSC CPO - 10 Dec 2025 - Shift 1 • General Awareness • Q68

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Which of the following statements regarding traditional and semi-classical Indian music styles is correct?
1. Kajari is sung by women in Uttar Pradesh during the rainy season and is often performed throughout the night, accompanied by group dancing.
2. Qawwali, which originated among Turkish Sufis, is a form of solo singing and does not involve a chorus (group singing).
3. Tappa, which originated in Punjab, employs high and agile notes and is inspired by the songs of camel drivers.
4. Amir Khusro introduced Qawwali to India as a Sufi devotional music style.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

Answer: Only 1, 3, and 4
Explanation:

  • The analysis of the given statements is as follows:
  • Statement 1 is correct: Kajari is a famous folk song of Uttar Pradesh (primarily Mirzapur and Varanasi), sung by women during the rainy season.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect: Qawwali is not a solo singing style, but rather a group singing style. It features a lead singer (Qawwal) accompanied by 'Ham-nawa' (a chorus or backing singers) who complement the singing with rhythmic clapping.
  • Statement 3 is correct: Tappa originated in Punjab. It evolved from the songs of camel drivers and involves a very rapid and agile application of musical notes.
  • Statement 4 is correct: Amir Khusrau is credited with popularizing Qawwali and instruments like the Sitar in India. He established it as a form of Sufi devotional music.

Additional Points:

  • Amir Khusrau: He is known as 'Tuti-e-Hind' (The Parrot of India). He also played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of the 'Khayal' style of singing.
  • Tappa Style: Musicians of the Gwalior Gharana gave it a classical form. Shori Miyan is considered the pioneer of Tappa singing.
  • Semi-Classical Music: This category includes forms such as Thumri, Dadra, and Tappa, which are based on Ragas but also possess the melodic sweetness of folk music.

Potential Questions and Answers:
Question: Who was known as the 'Queen of Thumri'?
Answer: Girija Devi.
Question: In which Hindu month is the Kajari folk song primarily sung?
Answer: Sawan (the rainy season).
Question: Who is credited with bringing prominence to Tappa singing within the realm of classical music?
Answer: Shori Miyan.