Which of the following instruments are correctly matched with their use or performance context?
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Sri-khol – Kirtan
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Ektara – Baul singing
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Dhol – Rabha war dance
- AOption (a)
1 and 2 only
- BOption (b)
2 and 3 only
- COption (c)
1 and 3 only
- DOption (d)
1, 2 and 3 are correct
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Correct answer
1, 2 and 3 are correct
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
Key Points
- The Sri-khol, often referred to simply as the Khol, is a traditional terracotta two-sided drum originating from Bengal and Assam. It is fundamentally linked to the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition and serves as the primary rhythmic accompaniment for Kirtan (devotional chanting) and Gayan-Bayan. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- The Ektara is a primitive one-stringed instrument used by wandering bards and mystics across the Indian subcontinent. It is the signature musical tool of the Baul community of Bengal, used to provide a rhythmic drone that complements their spiritual and philosophical songs. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- The Dhol is a versatile barrel-shaped drum found in various regional variations; among the Rabha tribe of the Northeast, it is an essential percussion instrument used during traditional War Dances (like the Nak-kati) and agricultural festivals to provide high-energy beats. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Additional Information
- Musical Traditions and Instruments:
- Sri-khol: Constructed from clay or terracotta, its body is wider in the middle with two leather-bound heads. It was historically popularized by the saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 15th century.
- Baul Singing: This is a unique folk tradition recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The music emphasizes the internal search for the 'Man of the Heart' (Moner Manush).
- Rabha Tribe: An Indo-Mongoloid community primarily residing in Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal. Their cultural performances often feature the Kram (drum), Badungduppa (bamboo instrument), and the Dhol to narrate tales of valor and harvest.
- Kirtan: A form of Bhakti yoga involving call-and-response chanting, which attained peak popularity during the Bhakti Movement in medieval India.




