NCERT Class 7 Arts Kriti-I (Sanskrit): Chapter 5 — सङ्गीतम्
This chapter, 'साङ्गीतमा्' (Sangeetama), from NCERT Class 7 Arts Kriti-I, introduces the fundamental concepts of Indian classical music. It explains the etymology of the word 'Sangeet' from 'Sam' (together) and 'Geet' (song), signifying the harmonious combination of melody and rhythm. The chapter defines key musical terms such as Aadharshruti (base pitch), Swara (musical note), Raga (melodic framework), Tala (rhythmic cycle), and Laya (tempo). It also introduces the concepts of Aaroha (ascending scale) and Avaroha (descending scale) within a Raga, along with Saragam (the sequence of notes). This foundational knowledge is crucial for students beginning their journey in understanding and appreciating Indian music as part of the CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 7 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti-I (Sanskrit) |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — सङ्गीतम् |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 193 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the meaning and origin of the term 'Sangeet'.
- Identify and define basic musical terms like Swara, Raga, Tala, and Laya.
- Recognize the concept of Aadharshruti as the base pitch.
- Differentiate between Aaroha and Avaroha in a Raga.
- Understand the sequence of notes known as Saragam.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| साङ्गीतम् | Music |
| स्वरः | Musical note |
| रागः | Melodic framework |
| तालः | Rhythmic cycle |
| लयः | Tempo/Rhythm |
| आधारश्रुतिः | Base pitch |
| आरोहः | Ascending scale |
| अवरोहः | Descending scale |
| सरगमः | Sequence of musical notes |
| मात्राः | Beats (in rhythm) |
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Practice questions
- What is the meaning of 'Sangeet' derived from its Sanskrit roots? Answer: 'Sangeet' is derived from 'Sam' (together) and 'Geet' (song), signifying the combination of melody and rhythm.
- What is called Aadharshruti in music? Answer: Aadharshruti, or Aadharswara, is the base pitch according to which music is played or sung.
- How many Swaras are there in Indian music? Answer: There are seven Swaras in Indian music: Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni.
- What is a Raga? Answer: A Raga is a group of Swaras that form a melody according to specific rules.
- Define Tala. Answer: Tala is a rhythmic cycle containing a specific number of beats (matras).
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of 'Sangeet'?
'Sangeet' is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Sam' (together) and 'Geet' (song), indicating a harmonious blend of melody and rhythm.
What is Aadharshruti in Indian classical music?
Aadharshruti, also known as Aadharswara, is the fundamental base pitch or tonic upon which the entire musical composition is built.
How many primary Swaras are there in Indian music?
Indian classical music primarily uses seven Swaras: Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, and Ni.
What is a Raga?
A Raga is a specific melodic structure or framework in Indian music, defined by a set of rules for ascending and descending notes, and characteristic phrases.
What is the difference between Tala and Laya?
Tala refers to the rhythmic cycle or meter, while Laya refers to the tempo or speed at which the music is performed.
What does Aaroha and Avaroha signify in a Raga?
Aaroha refers to the ascending sequence of notes in a Raga, and Avaroha refers to the descending sequence of notes.
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NCERT Class 7 Arts — Kriti-I (Sanskrit) — Chapter 5 — सङ्गीतम्. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.