NCERT Class 11 Sangeet Hindustani Sangeet Gayan Evam Vadan: Chapter 2 — आधार ग्रंथ
This chapter, 'Aadhaar Granth' (Source Texts), from the NCERT Class 11 Sangeet textbook, explores foundational texts in Indian music. It details the significance of the Samaveda, highlighting its connection to Vedic civilization and its divine status as declared in the Bhagavad Gita. The chapter explains the structure of Samagana, its five main parts (Prastav, Udgith, Pratihar, Upadrav, Nidhan), and the roles of the chanters. It then delves into the Ramayana as a crucial source for understanding ancient Indian cultural traditions and music. The text describes the musicality of the epic, the proficiency of Maharishi Valmiki, and the pervasive presence of music in society, including the use of various instruments and vocal performances during different occasions. It also mentions Ravana's musical prowess and his worship of Shiva through Samagana and dance, along with his famous 'Ravanahatha' instrument. The chapter concludes by listing instruments used during the Ramayana period, referred to collectively as 'Turyam'.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | Sangeet |
| Book | Hindustani Sangeet Gayan Evam Vadan |
| Chapter | Chapter 2 — आधार ग्रंथ |
| Language | Hindi |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 602 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the historical and cultural significance of Samaveda in Indian music.
- Identify the different parts and chanters of Samagana.
- Recognize the Ramayana as a source for ancient Indian musical practices.
- Learn about the musical instruments and performances mentioned in the Ramayana.
- Appreciate the role of music in religious and social ceremonies during ancient times.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| सामवेद | One of the four Vedas, primarily a collection of chants set to music. |
| आर्चिक | The part of Samaveda that is a collection of Rigvedic verses. |
| गान | The melodic and sung form of Samaveda. |
| प्रसताव | The introductory part of Samagana. |
| उद्गीथ | The main chant in Samagana, often starting with 'Om'. |
| प्रतिहार | A part of Samagana sung by the Pratiharata. |
| उपद्रव | A section of Samagana sung by the main Samagayaka. |
| निधन | The concluding part of Samagana. |
| उपगाययक | A supporting singer who maintains a drone note. |
| रामायण | An ancient Indian epic poem composed by Maharishi Valmiki. |
| तूर्य | A general term for musical instruments used during the Ramayana period. |
| रावणहथा | A stringed instrument famously played by Ravana. |
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Practice questions
- Which Veda is considered the source of Samagana? Answer: Samaveda.
- What are the five main parts of Samagana? Answer: Prastav, Udgith, Pratihar, Upadrav, and Nidhan.
- Who composed the Ramayana? Answer: Maharishi Valmiki.
- What term was used for musical instruments during the Ramayana period? Answer: Turyam.
- Which instrument is associated with Ravana? Answer: The Ravanahatha.
Practice MCQs
Q1. According to the Bhagavad Gita, which Veda is Krishna?
Explanation: Shri Krishna states in the Bhagavad Gita, 'Vedanam Samavedosmi', meaning 'Among the Vedas, I am the Samaveda'.
Q2. The 'Archik' part of the Samaveda is primarily a collection of:
Explanation: The Archik part of the Samaveda is a compilation of verses from the Rigveda that are suitable for chanting.
Q3. Which of the following is NOT one of the five main parts of Samagana?
Explanation: The five main parts of Samagana are Prastav, Udgith, Pratihar, Upadrav, and Nidhan. Samaroh is not mentioned as a part.
Q4. Who was responsible for teaching music to Luv and Kush?
Explanation: Maharishi Valmiki, the composer of the Ramayana, was proficient in both Vedic and secular music and taught it to Luv and Kush.
Q5. The term 'Turyam' in the context of the Ramayana refers to:
Explanation: 'Turyam' was the term used during the Ramayana period to collectively refer to various musical instruments.
Q6. Ravana is known for his skill in playing which instrument?
Explanation: Ravana was a skilled veena player, and his instrument was known as the 'Ravanahatha'.
Frequently asked questions
What is the significance of Samaveda in Indian music?
Samaveda is considered one of the foundational texts of Indian music, as it is primarily a collection of chants set to melodic tunes, forming the basis of Samagana.
How is Samagana structured?
Samagana is typically divided into five parts: Prastav, Udgith, Pratihar, Upadrav, and Nidhan, each sung by specific chanters or groups of chanters.
Why is the Ramayana considered an important source for understanding ancient Indian music?
The Ramayana provides detailed descriptions of musical practices, instruments, and the pervasive presence of music in society during its time, offering insights into the cultural traditions.
What role did 'Upagayakas' play in Samagana?
Upagayakas (supporting singers) maintained a drone note ('Ho') to help the main chanters (Udgatas) stay in tune and remember the original pitch.
Which instruments are mentioned as being used during the Ramayana period?
Instruments like Venu (flute), Shankh (conch), Dundubhi (drum), Bheri, Mridangam, and Patah are mentioned, collectively referred to as 'Turyam'.
What is the 'Ravanahatha'?
The Ravanahatha is a stringed musical instrument famously played by Ravana, the king of Lanka, as mentioned in the Ramayana.
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NCERT Class 11 Sangeet — Hindustani Sangeet Gayan Evam Vadan — Chapter 2 — आधार ग्रंथ. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.