NCERT Class 5 Arts Bansuri: Chapter 13 — Box Breathing
This chapter from NCERT Class 5 Arts Bansuri introduces the concept of Box Breathing, an exercise designed to regulate breath. It explains the technique of inhaling, holding, exhaling, and holding again, each for a count of four, for 4-5 cycles. The chapter highlights the importance of smooth, regulated breath for activities like singing, comparing it to a car's engine. It also differentiates between Dhwani (sound) and Naada (musical sound), noting that Naada has a pleasant, regular pattern. A fascinating 'Do You Know?' section reveals that Indian classical music notes evolved from the chanting of the Samaveda, initially using three notes that later developed into the seven sapta swaras. This chapter helps students understand breath control for artistic expression and the origins of musical notes.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 5 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Bansuri |
| Chapter | Chapter 13 — Box Breathing |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 326 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand and practice Box Breathing for breath regulation.
- Differentiate between Dhwani (sound) and Naada (musical sound).
- Recognize the importance of regulated breath in artistic activities like singing.
- Learn about the historical evolution of musical notes from Vedic chanting.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Dhwani | Sound |
| Naada | Musical sound |
| Exhale | Breathe out |
| Regulated | Controlled or organized |
| Agitated | Feeling or appearing troubled or nervous |
| Melodious | Pleasant-sounding |
| Tuneful | Melodious |
| Vibration | A rapid back-and-forth movement |
| Udatta | Normal or medium tone in Vedic chanting |
| Anudatta | Lower note in Vedic chanting |
| Svarita | Raised pitch or higher note in Vedic chanting |
| Sapta swara | The seven notes of Indian classical music |
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Practice questions
- What is the technique for Box Breathing? Answer: Inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold for four counts. Repeat this cycle.
- Why is Box Breathing called 'box' breathing? Answer: Because each of the four parts of the breathing cycle (inhale, hold, exhale, hold) is of the same length.
- What is the difference between Dhwani and Naada? Answer: Dhwani is any sound, while Naada is specifically musical sound, characterized by a pleasant and regular pattern of vibration.
- How did the notes of Indian classical music evolve? Answer: They evolved from the ritual chanting of the Samaveda, initially using three notes that gradually developed into the seven sapta swaras.
Frequently asked questions
What is Box Breathing?
Box Breathing is a technique where you inhale, hold, exhale, and hold your breath, each for an equal count, typically four. It helps regulate breath and promotes calmness.
Why is regulated breath important for singing?
Regulated breath provides the smooth and steady airflow needed for singing notes clearly and maintaining pitch.
What is Dhwani?
Dhwani is the general term for sound, encompassing all the noises we hear around us.
What is Naada in music?
Naada refers to musical sound, which is pleasant, tuneful, and has a regular, steady pattern of vibration.
Can Box Breathing help when feeling angry?
Yes, the chapter states that Box Breathing can help you feel calm when you are angry or agitated.
What were the original notes in Vedic chanting?
The original notes in Vedic chanting were Udatta (normal/medium), Anudatta (lower), and Svarita (higher).
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 5 Arts — Bansuri — Chapter 13 — Box Breathing. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.