NCERT Class 6 Arts Kriti-I: Chapter 11 — Music and Society
This chapter, "Music and Society" from NCERT Class 6 Arts Kriti-I, explores the profound connection between music and societal values. It highlights how music, through ancient texts like the Vedas and Upanishads, inspires kindness and truthfulness. The chapter discusses the use of music during India's freedom struggle to unite people against oppression, citing Rabindranath Tagore's national anthem as an example of reflecting India's diversity. It also addresses how music can perpetuate stereotypes but emphasizes the power of music to challenge and change them, encouraging students to create positive change through song. The chapter aims to foster critical listening and understanding of music's social impact.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 6 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti-I |
| Chapter | Chapter 11 — Music and Society |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 385 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand music's role in inspiring positive values.
- Analyze how music was used during the Indian freedom struggle.
- Identify and discuss stereotypes in song lyrics.
- Reflect on how music can be used to create or challenge stereotypes.
- Explore the connection between music, lyrics, and emotions.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Upanishads | Ancient Indian texts that inspire ethical living. |
| Stereotypes | Preconceived ideas or generalizations about groups of people. |
| Composition | The way a piece of music is created or arranged. |
| Majestic | Having or showing impressive beauty or dignity. |
| Diversity | The state of being diverse; variety. |
| Oppression | Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control. |
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Practice questions
- How did ancient texts like the Vedas and Upanishads inspire people? Answer: They inspired people to be kind, truthful, and loving.
- What was the role of music during the freedom struggle? Answer: Music was used to unite people against the British.
- What are stereotypes? Answer: Stereotypes are preconceived ideas or generalizations based on culture, race, color, gender, or other factors.
- Who composed the Indian national anthem? Answer: Rabindranath Tagore composed the Indian national anthem.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Which ancient texts are mentioned as inspiring kindness and truthfulness?
Explanation: The text explicitly states that the Vedas and Upanishads inspire us to be kind, truthful, and loving.
Q2. Rabindranath Tagore was the first Indian to win which prestigious award?
Explanation: The chapter mentions Rabindranath Tagore as the first Indian and non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913.
Q3. What does the chapter suggest music can be used for during social movements?
Explanation: The text states that during the freedom struggle, leaders used music to unite people against the British.
Q4. Stereotypes are defined in the chapter as:
Explanation: The chapter defines stereotypes as preconceived ideas or generalizations based on culture, race, color, gender, or other factors.
Q5. The song 'Babu Ka Murga Kukdoo Koo' is used to illustrate:
Explanation: The song is presented in the context of discussing how music can create stereotypes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main objective of this chapter?
The main objective is to understand how music can be used for social messaging and to analyze stereotypes in song lyrics.
How did music help during India's freedom struggle?
Music was used by leaders to unite people against the British rule.
What are stereotypes according to the chapter?
Stereotypes are preconceived ideas or generalizations based on factors like culture, race, or gender.
Who composed the Indian national anthem?
The Indian national anthem was composed by Rabindranath Tagore.
Can music create stereotypes?
Yes, the chapter explains that music can be used to create stereotypes, but it can also be used to challenge them.
What is the message of Swami Vivekananda quoted in the chapter?
Swami Vivekananda's quote encourages people to 'Arise! Awake! and Stop not until the goal is reached.'
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 6 Arts — Kriti-I — Chapter 11 — Music and Society. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 10 Aug 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.